The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) has appointed James Strachan as its new Director of Corporate Services.

James joins from Eastleigh Borough Council in Hampshire, where he has served as Chief Executive for the past four years. He brings a wealth of experience from across local and central government, having previously held the role of Business Development Director at Southampton City Council and a range of senior positions at Hampshire County Council.

James also has significant Whitehall experience, having worked at the Cabinet Office and served as a Director at the National Archives.

In this newly-created role, James will join the Ombudsman’s Executive Team and lead the corporate services function, overseeing the organisation’s Policy and Communications, Human Resources, IT, Operational Support, Projects and Committee & Governance teams.

Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, Mrs Amerdeep Clarke, said:

"After a thorough recruitment process, we are delighted to have appointed James as our new Director of Corporate Services. 

“His extensive experience across local and central government, combined with his strong track record of leadership, makes him ideally placed to drive forward our corporate services and support the vital work we do for the public.

“James has demonstrated throughout his career an ability to lead teams effectively while delivering real improvements to services. His understanding of both local government and central government will be invaluable as we continue to develop as an organisation. We very much look forward to working with him.”

Mr Strachan said:

"I'm delighted to be joining the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman.  I've always been impressed with the professionalism and dedication of the LGSCO and its mission not just to resolve individual disputes, but also to learn lessons that can be applied across the sector. 

“I look forward to joining a great team and contributing what I've learned from my own career in public services."

James will take up his new post on 1 April.

Article date: 06 February 2026