Falkirk Council has announced the appointment of Michael McGuinness as their new Head of Growth, Planning and Climate Change - a new post created to deliver a range of major service areas that contribute to the area's economic recovery, culture, leisure, and regulation.

With an extensive private sector and public sector career spanning over 25 years in Economic Development, Michael brings a wealth of experience and skills to the new role.

Starting his career in a graduate engineering role in the steelworks at Ravenscraig, Michael moved onto a career with Enterprise Ayrshire supporting the engineering and electronic sector before moving on to join Scottish Enterprise.

He has a strong track record in project management, innovation and business support and growth with senior roles at Hillington Park Innovation centre, a property development company in Cambridge, and as Regional Director in economic development with SQW in Edinburgh.

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In 2011 Michael took on the role of Economic Development Manager for West Dunbartonshire Council. During that time, he has managed the Council's business supporting role and more recently the climate change emergency agenda. He also delivered:

• the regeneration of Queens Quay - the former John Brown's shipyard - in Clydebank

• the establishment of an award-winning district heating network in Clydebank

• secured £20m of UK Levelling Up Fund investment for Dumbarton town centre regeneration

• West Dunbartonshire's £34m City Deal project on the River Clyde as part of the Glasgow City Region.

Michael McGuinness said: "I'm looking forward to joining the team at Falkirk Council and finding out more about the great work already being delivered across the area, and also working with the senior leadership team to make real improvements across the communities we serve."

Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services said: "This important new role will be key in achieving our ambitions across a broad range of service areas. I'm delighted that Michael is joining us, and his extensive knowledge and experience will be invaluable as we drive forward Falkirk's growth and seek to improve the lives of the residents who live here."