North Ayshire’s library and culture boss has now been appointed to take the lead on education across the area.

Audrey Sutton will now serve as the council’s Executive Director of Communities and Education.

The internal appointment was confirmed last week [Monday December 21] after a meeting of North Ayrshire Council’s Staffing and Recruitment Committee, with Ms Sutton previously serving as Interim Executive Director for Communities, Head of Service Connected Communities and previously Information and Culture Head.

Announcing the news last week, Ms Sutton said: “Delighted and privileged to become Executive Director of Communities and Education at North Ayrshire Council.

“Working with schools is an honour and a marvellous learning experience every day.”

North Ayrshire Council’s Head of Service for Education Andrew McClelland said: “I am delighted to confirm that Audrey Sutton was appointed yesterday as our permanent Executive Director of Communities and Education.

“Very much looking forward to our next chapter as a team. Huge congratulations boss!”

North Ayrshire Council previously approved a new chief officer and directorate structure saying it hoped to streamline its services.

The Staffing and Recruitment confirmed the changes, which are now underway and will take effect in two phases.

By the time the restructure is completed, the number of directorates and Executive Directors will reduce from four to two and the post of one Head of Service will be removed and a dedicated director post to deliver growth and investment will be created.

Chief Executive Craig Hatton said: “We have great ambitions for the people of North Ayrshire and its economy.”