Scottish chief executive to retire after more than 40 years in the sector

Mr Stirrat said: “When I first entered the sector in the early 1980s – as a student intern and later a trainee housing manager – I witnessed the tail end of some of the most radical efforts to tackle poor housing, including Housing Action Areas, as well as the uncertainty created by the Right to Buy and the fear that social housing might be diminished or marginalised.

“Over the four decades since, in roles across both local government and the registered social landlord sector, I am proud to have played a part in helping social housing not only withstand those pressures but evolve, strengthen and grow. Contributing to fairer, more secure and more resilient housing provision has been one of the great privileges of my career.

“As I prepare to leave the sector at the end of 2026, I do so with real confidence. The next generation of leaders brings energy, creativity and commitment, and I have no doubt they will rise to the challenges ahead.”

Jim Cargill, chair at Grampian, said: “The board and I want to express our sincere thanks to Craig for his outstanding leadership, his unwavering commitment to our vision and his role in ensuring a clear, well-managed transition.

“Under his leadership, Grampian has delivered a further 1,000 affordable homes and developed its range of services. Craig has also built strong relationships at the highest levels of government and across the housing sector.

“His work has brought lasting benefit to our organisation and our tenants and customers in the communities we serve.

“Major milestones achieved include Grampian being accredited with Best Companies as an outstanding place to work and securing the Customer Service Excellence Standard through the organisation’s flagship Grampian Deal initiative.

“Craig will work a significant notice period to ensure continuity so it remains very much business as usual, and Grampian continues to be in a strong and stable position.”

The recruitment of Mr Stirrat’s successor will begin later this year, when the board will appoint an external agency to support Grampian’s search for its next chief executive.