The chief executive of Perth and Kinross Council is standing down after two years at the helm.
Karen Reid has been appointed the new head of NHS Education for Scotland.
She joined the local authority in September 2018, after a leading role at the Care Inspectorate.
Her new appointment was announced on Wednesday morning by Health Secretary Jeane Freeman.
“Karen has a range of skills acquired during her roles with Perth and Kinross Council, the Care Inspectorate and Education Scotland among others,” said Ms Freeman. “Her knowledge and enthusiasm will enable us to keep building the skilled and sustainable workforce which Scotland needs as we navigate the current crisis.”
Ms Reid said she was pleased with the new role, but added: “It has, however, been an incredibly difficult decision to leave Perth and Kinross Council given the very talented and committed people who work for the council.
“Day in, day out, every colleague goes above and beyond to ensure residents, businesses and visitors enjoy good experiences and outcomes to live life well.”
She said: “It is the hard work and commitment of colleagues that makes Perth and Kinross Council a truly fantastic organisation.”
She said she had “thoroughly enjoyed” her role and her work on a range of projects, including the planned boutique hotel in Perth High Street.
“As a resident of Perth and Kinross I will enjoy watching the area flourish and I wish each and every one of my colleagues every success for the future.”
Leader Murray Lyle said he was disappointed to see Ms Reid go, adding: “I have found her to be absolutely first class and she has been a tremendous leader of staff at Perth and Kinross Council.”
SNP group leader Grant Laing said it was a “huge loss” to the region. “Obviously, I am disappointed to see Karen leave to take up a national appointment because I think she is the right person to lead Perth and Kinross through this extremely difficult period,” he said.
