Retiring Chief Executive presented with the APSE Van Coulter Lifetime Achievement Award

Mrs Jacqui Dixon MBE, retiring Chief Executive of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council was bestowed the Van Coulter Lifetime Achievement Award for exceptional leadership and her contribution to the local government sector.

The award was presented by Mo Baines, Chief Executive of APSE at a special event at Mossley Mill on Monday 30 October, coincidently this was Jacqui’s last official engagement before her retirement from the Council the following day.

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 2012 Jacqui was appointed Chief Executive of Newtownabbey Borough Council and subsequently Chief Executive of the merged Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in March 2014. 

Throughout her career Jacqui was a strong advocate and supporter of APSE. Speaking at the award ceremony 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 for their support over the years where working collaboratively allowed us to achieve many successful outcomes for our citizens.

We wish Jacqui well in her retirement.