City council chief executive to retire after six years’ service

The head of Dundee City Council is to retire next year after six years in the role.

David Martin, who will turn 60 this year, will step down early in 2021, describing the job as chief executive as a “huge privilege”.

He said: “I said when I was appointed that Dundee was a great city, and every day of the last six years has cemented that view.

“Working with ambitious, committed councillors and an inspiring team has, for me, been a highlight of a 33-year career in local government.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with some truly fantastic people in all areas of the council and across the range of partnerships, businesses and communities working to make the city a great place to live, work and visit.

“Dundee is bold, inclusive and well-regarded and it has been an honour to be part of Team Dundee and play a role in that journey.”

Mr Martin joined the city council in 2014, moving from Renfrewshire.

Since then he has co-chaired the Dundee Partnership, sat on a number of boards including V&A Dundee and Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc, and recently led the council’s coronavirus response.

He leaves a salary of £154,898, which includes a basic salary, plus extra payments for his role in overseeing last year’s general and European elections.

Recruitment for Mr Martin’s replacement will begin in the near future.

Council leader John Alexander said: “I want to thank David for his unwavering support, his service and for his constant striving for improvement.”