Infrastructure boss leaves

THE SEARCH is on for a new director of infrastructure at Shetland Islands Council as Phil Crossland is to leave the local authority after less than two years in the post.

Crossland is to take up the post of director of environment and transport at Leicestershire County Council, his home county, later this summer.

He described the move as a ‘once in a career’ opportunity, and added that it had nevertheless been a difficult decision to leave.

Crossland has been involved in helping to guide the council through some significant changes and a number of key projects, including the ferry services review.

Council leader Gary Robinson said he was sorry to see him leave.

“He has been a valued member of the management team at a very demanding time and, on behalf of the whole council, I’d like to wish him the very best in his future career,” he said.

Crossland has a background in civil engineering and has worked in local government since 1990, with posts at Shropshire Council and Surrey County Council. 

He moved to Shetland in September 2011 from Stoke-On-Trent City Council, where he was director of transportation and planning.