University of the West of Scotland Appoints Joyce White OBE as New Chair of Court

Strategic Insights -

Joyce White OBE, the former chief executive of West Dunbartonshire Council, has been appointed as the University of the West of Scotland's (UWS) new chair of court. Her extensive executive and non-executive experience, as well as her leadership development programmes across various sectors, make her an ideal candidate for the role. White will take over as chair of court in February 2026, following Kate Allum's six-year term in office. During her tenure, White was responsible for managing council operations and services, and she has also been involved with Girl Guiding for many years, receiving an OBE for her services in 2018.

Key Takeaways:

  • Joyce White OBE, former chief executive of West Dunbartonshire Council, has been appointed as the University of the West of Scotland's (UWS) new chair of court, effective February 2026.
  • White brings extensive executive and non-executive experience, as well as leadership development programmes across public, private, and voluntary sectors.
  • During her tenure as chief executive, White was responsible for the management of council operations and a wide range of services.
  • White has been involved with Girl Guiding for many years and received an OBE for her services to local government, further education, and Girl Guiding in 2018.
  • The chair of court leads the University's Court, which is the governing body of UWS, determining the future direction of the university, monitoring performance, and fostering an environment for strategic aims to be achieved.
  • Professor James Miller, principal and vice-chancellor of UWS, welcomed White to the university, praising her inspiring work within the local community and expressing gratitude to Kate Allum for her dedication to the role of chair of court.

Statistics:

  • 2018: Joyce White OBE received an OBE for her services to local government, further education, and Girl Guiding.
  • 6 years: Kate Allum's term in office as chair of court.
  • 2026: Joyce White OBE will take over as chair of court, following Kate Allum's six-year term in office.

Sources:

  • University of the West of Scotland's announcement regarding Joyce White OBE's appointment as new chair of court.