Following the death of Highland Council’s former Chief Executive Arthur McCourt earlier this month (June 2026), the Convener of Highland Council Bill Lobban has paid tribute.
“I was saddened to learn of the passing of Arthur McCourt, a former Chief Executive of Highland Council whose contribution to public service in the Highlands is widely recognised.
“While our time in the organisation did not coincide, his legacy and contribution to the Highland Council and communities across the region are highly regarded. His commitment to public service has left a lasting legacy that continues to benefit the Highlands today.
“In 1995, Arthur’s leadership was instrumental in the smooth transition of the region's predecessor district councils into the single all-purpose Highland Council. This shaped the direction of the organisation during this complex transition and helped to establish the foundations of the Council we know today.
“On behalf of the Highland Council, I would like to express my sincere condolences to Arthur’s family, friends and former colleagues at this difficult time.”
Derek Brown, Chief Executive of Highland Council, added: “As the first Chief Executive of Highland Council, Arthur had the great challenge of overseeing the establishment of the new organisation and its development – this would have been a challenging task and one he deserves great credit for undertaking. His service spanned a number of administrations in a period of significant political change in the area.
“His longevity in the role is testimony to his diligence and resilience, as well as his profound commitment to serving Highland people. I know from the feedback that I have had from current employees that they still remember Arthur’s determination to be a visible presence in all areas of the Highlands – something that was pointed out to me in particular by one of our harbour teams in the north west Highlands recently.
“The thoughts of Highland Council staff are with Arthur’s family at this sad time.”
Following 12 years’ service, Arthur retired from the Council in 2007 and was succeeded by Alistair Dodds.
Above: Arthur McCourt – Chief Executive of Highland Council between 1995 and 2007.