University of the West of Scotland has named its new Chair of Court.

Joyce White OBE, former Chief Executive of West Dunbartonshire Council, has been appointed to the role after an extensive recruitment and election process.

Joyce, who has extensive executive and non-executive experience, and has led coaching, mentoring and leadership development programmes across public, private and voluntary sector, will take over the role in February 2026, following Kate Allum’s six-year term in office.

During her time as Chief Executive in Local Government, Joyce was responsible for the management of Council operations and a wide range of services, as well as working closely with elected members to ensure strong and visible leadership and direction. 

In the community, Joyce has been involved with Girl Guiding for many years and in 2018, received an OBE for her services to local government, further education and girl guiding.

Commenting on her new role, Joyce said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed to be the new Chair of Court at UWS. The University’s goals and values align closely with my own and I look forward to supporting staff, students and the University community, while playing my part to deliver strong governance as we drive forward the ambitions set out in the new Strategy 2030. I have big shoes to fill, following on from Kate Allum’s exceptional leadership of UWS Court for the last six years, however, I am delighted to say that I too have ‘found my place’ at UWS and can’t wait to get started in the new year.” 

I have big shoes to fill, following on from Kate Allum’s exceptional leadership of UWS Court for the last six years, however, I am delighted to say that I too have ‘found my place’ at UWS and can’t wait to get started in the new year.

Joyce White OBE

The Chair of Court leads the University’s Court, which is the governing body of UWS. The Court collectively determines the future direction of the University, monitors performance and aims to foster an environment in which the institution’s strategic aims are achieved, and students succeed.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “I am really pleased to welcome Joyce to UWS. Joyce’s work within the local community – from business leaders to young people – is incredibly inspiring and we know she will be an excellent role model for the University. I’d also like to extend sincere thanks to Kate Allum for her dedication to the role of Chair of Court during her term in office.”

Joyce’s work within the local community – from business leaders to young people – is incredibly inspiring and we know she will be an excellent role model for the University.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor