Appointment of Director, Children’s Services 

Samantha Flaws has worked for the Council since 2012.  Her first post in Shetland was as class Teacher at Bressay Primary, before moving to Cunningsburgh Primary as Head Teacher later that year.  She was appointed Quality Improvement Officer for Early Years in 2016, Executive Manager for Early Years in 2021, and most recently was Executive Manager for Education and Learning.   

Mrs. Flaws will take up the post as Acting Director immediately while all the appropriate recruitment processes are completed.

The Director is responsible for children’s social work, sport and leisure provision and library services, as well as education and schools.   

Chief Executive Maggie Sandison says she’s delighted to welcome Samantha to the Corporate Management Team:  “We have appointed an inspirational Director who is committed to ensuring that the experiences and views of children and young people are at the very heart of what the Council does, making sure every child has the best start in life and that Shetland is a fantastic place to grow up in.”

Chair of the Council’s Education and Families Committee, Councillor Davie Sandison: “Throughout what has been a robust and rigorous process, Samantha has demonstrated passion, commitment, an authentic leadership style and an obvious dedication to the needs of Shetland’s children and young people. 

“She has significant experience of leading change and improvement, and a solid track record of developing strong relationships, both internally and externally. I am really looking forward to working with her to improve the outcomes for our young people.”

Samantha says “I am delighted to be the preferred candidate for the post of Director and really look forward to the challenge this new role will bring.  Huge thanks must go to my family and colleagues who have supported me during the recruitment process.” 

Mrs. Flaws takes up her new role following the retirement of former Director Helen Budge earlier in September.