The Chief Executive of West Dunbartonshire Council has announced her intention to move on from her post this summer.
Joyce White has been at the helm of the organisation for more than 10 years and has been responsible for the management of a wide range of operations and key council services.
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During her tenure she has been the driving force behind extensive and ambitious regeneration projects including West Dunbartonshire Energy Centre, new schools and campuses, modern care homes and brand new council housing.
Under her leadership the council has taken on more than 1000 apprentices, supported over 3000 local businesses and raised attainment among young people.
In 2018, Joyce was awarded an OBE for her services to further education and girl guiding. Since 2020 she worked to ensure that services have been maintained during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Speaking about her decision to move on, Joyce said: “I was motivated to join the public sector because I wanted to help make a difference to people's lives and I am so proud of all that we have achieved since then.
“It has been a difficult decision to move on from a job, an organisation and an area I care so much about, but it is now time for me to progress my other plans including continuing with coaching and mentoring.
“I am hugely grateful for the opportunities I have had with this council and I look forward to its next chapter with the local government elections in May and the appointment of a new Chief Executive who will continue the journey of ensuring West Dunbartonshire is a great place to live, work, learn and visit.”
Joyce joined West Dunbartonshire Council in 2008 as Executive Director of Corporate Services. The local authority serves 89,590 residents and a lively business community in an area stretching from the banks of Loch Lomond to the shores of the Clyde.
She was appointed chief executive in 2011 and has been responsible for driving the council while managing around 5000 staff who deliver a wide range of key services.
The role has also required her to work closely with elected members to ensure that there is strong, visible leadership and direction.
Following her departure, Joyce will focus on her own business pursuits including coaching, mentoring and mediations, non-executive roles, including with charities Youthlink Scotland and Inspiring Scotland, as well spending more time with her loved ones.
Council Leader councillor Jonathan McColl said: “Joyce has been an exceptional Chief Executive with unfailing dedication to West Dunbartonshire Council and the communities it serves.
“During my time working with her she has always gone above and beyond what is expected, and her strength, determination and enthusiasm in an increasingly demanding environment has always been greatly appreciated.
“On behalf of all elected members I would like to wish her well in her future endeavours.”
Councillor Martin Rooney, Leader of the Labour Group in West Dunbartonshire, added: “During her time with West Dunbartonshire Council Joyce has shown that she is a capable, trustworthy and inspiring leader and it has been a pleasure to work with her to deliver change and transformation to the communities we serve.
“I’d like to thank Joyce for all her hard work over the past 10 years and the legacy she leaves behind in West Dunbartonshire.”
