Councillor Hugh Hunter, the Leader of the Council said: "I am delighted to announce that Harry Garland, currently the Director of Community Social Services with Orkney Islands Council has agreed to become our new Director of Social Work, Housing and Health.
"Harry has over 25 years local government experience and currently has responsibility for Community Services within Orkney Islands Council, a post that encompasses the statutory role of Chief Social Work Officer, and is active in other areas of the Council.
"He is professionally qualified and registered with the Social Services Council and has years of practical experience, a very good combination.
"As a forward thinking person who is well respected by his professional peers I am positive that the talents that Harry will bring to his new post will bring great benefits to the people of South Ayrshire and to the Council."
In his current post with Orkney Council Harry has full responsibility for all statutory and preventive services relating to: Children's Services; Community Care Services; Criminal Justice Services; Community Safety; Antisocial Behaviour; Supported Accommodation and Joint and Integrated Working.
Speaking about his appointment Harry said: "I am very excited about taking up the post of Director of Social Work, Housing and Health within South Ayrshire Council.
"I truly believe in the services that local authorities, such as South Ayrshire Council deliver.
"I know that they can make a real difference and improve the quality of the lives of users.
"Partnership working is the way to achieve outstanding results, and I am eagerly looking forward to establishing strong links with the Council's partner agencies and community groups.
"By working hand in glove with Council employees, Elected Members and other agencies I will work tirelessly to maintain standards, bring about changes where they are needed, improve services and raise the profile of the Council.
"Taking up this post will mean that I will be relocating from Orkney along with my wife and two children.
"We will all be living in South Ayrshire and I am sure that we will soon become active members of our new community."