Aberdeenshire Council has announced its new head of planning.
Paul Macari will replace Robert Gray, who has retired after 10 years as head of planning and environment.
Mr Macari was previously the authority’s principal developer obligations officer, and will bring a “wealth of experience” to the role.
The council yesterday paid tribute to Mr Gray’s work, and said he was “instrumental” in helping making Aberdeenshire one of the top performing planning authorities in Scotland.
Mr Macari, 38, said he was looking forward to continuing his predecessor’s work.
The father-of-two said: “There are a number of key areas which we will be addressing including developing our digital agenda, working with new planning legislation and focusing on sustainability and climate change.
“We will also be maintaining a strong focus on our budget and developing greater collaboration within Aberdeenshire’s many and varied communities.”
Director of infrastructure services Stephen Archer congratulated Mr Macari on his appointment.
He said: “He brings with him a detailed knowledge of the authority and I have no doubt he will help further develop the planning service in the years to come.
“While we continue to be a very strongly-performing authority, we must also strengthen engagement with the development industry and our local communities to ensure Aberdeenshire remains a great place in which to live and work.”