Orkney Islands Council chief executive Alistair Buchan was appointed a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
Last night he said he had accepted the award on behalf of all the people who had helped him over the years with advice and support.
Mr Buchan took on the top council job at the age of 33 in 1997. He was Scotland’s youngest chief executive and is the longest serving in Scotland.
His career in local government began in 1988 as a personnel officer with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, the Western Isles Council.
In 2010 he was seconded to Shetland Islands Council as chief executive, returning to Orkney Islands Council in 2012.
Mr Buchan said: “I owe my career to the Islands’ councils, but especially to Orkney for the immense privilege it has been to hold a chief executive’s job in my homeland.
“It is my great fortune to have known many fine people throughout my life who have given me wise advice and the most generous support. I have a deep sense of gratitude in accepting this honour, not for me but for them.”
Council convener Steven Heddle said: “Under his stewardship the council has consistently punched above its weight and been innovative in the way it serves our islands.
“This honour reflects the enormous contribution he has made over many years to local government and to our community. It is thoroughly well deserved for Alistair, for the council and for Orkney.”