Response: Council defends its reasons for hiring and level of pay

Highland Council twice tried to recruit for the new post of ECO for education and learning without success.

In February a different approach was agreed by its member recruitment panel to find a high-calibre candidate with a track record in education leadership and improvement.

This involved using a head hunting agency, and a review of the recruitment package and job and person specifications, which was noted at the council meeting in March. The process concluded during lockdown, with a scaleddown appointments panel agreed by the members of the

“gold” emergency response group for the purpose on April 13. This was reported to council in June.

The appointment was confirmed on May 22 for a temporary placement on a consultancy basis.

Council leader Margaret Davidson said: “The need for high-quality education leadership was heightened in the council’s Covid response; to make sure learning continued while schools were closed, childcare was provided for key workers, vulnerable children were supported and schools reopenly safely, in line with government requirements.

“Also, taking into account the views of parent and other groups including trade unions.

“We needed strong leadership to deal with the pandemic and going forward we need to raise attainment in our schools. Paul Senior has the skills we need.”

The fee paid is not a likefor-like comparison with permanent staff salary costs.

Permanent staff costs incur an extra 30% for national insurance and pension contributions and training.

Consultants pay these costs themselves.

Tax is also deducted from the consultancy fee and the council does not pay for annual leave or sick periods.