The award was presented by Mo Baines, Chief Executive of APSE at the full council meeting in Mossley Mill last night (Monday 30 October). Coincidently this was also Jacqui’s last official engagement before her retirement from the Council today.
Throughout her career Jacqui was a strong advocate and supporter of APSE and it is very fitting that she received this national award in recognition for her exemplary service to local government.
Jacqui started her career with legacy Newtownabbey Borough Council in 1999 as Economic Development Manager, she held this role until 2005 before she joined Craigavon Borough Council as Director of Development Services. Jacqui later returned to Newtownabbey Borough Council in 2007 to take up the post of Director of Development Services.
In 2011 Jacqui was appointed Chief Executive of Newtownabbey Borough Council and subsequently Chief Executive of the merged Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in March 2014.
Commenting on the award the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Mark Cooper BEM, said; “Jacqui’s exceptional leadership has significantly contributed to the development, prosperity and shaping the Council into a thriving and progressive organisation. With a focus on best practice and empowerment Jacqui has made a substantial difference in local government.”
Speaking on receiving the award Jacqui Dixon added;
“I am honoured to receive the Van Coulter Lifetime Achievement Award, it has been a privilege for me to serve as Chief Executive of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. I would like to pay tribute to the Elected Members and council officers for their support over the years where working collaboratively allowed us to achieve many successful outcomes for our citizens.”
Jacqui Dixon will be succeeded by Mr Richard Baker Corporate Director for Leisure and Development Services Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, who will take up the role of Chief Executive in mid-November.