Dawn Roberts

Dawn has been Chief Executive of Dumfries and Galloway Council since 11 July 2022, responsible for all local government services in the region serving 150K residents, and employing 6500 staff. Previously, Dawn was the Executive Director of Corporate, Customer and Community Services for Cumbria County Council and for a time had additional responsibilities as Deputy Chief Executive.  Key responsibilities have included leadership of transformational change, most notably in relation to customer and digital services, leadership of corporate/enabling services and leadership of community services such as libraries, archives, and registration.  Dawn has recently taken the lead role for Solace on Digital Health and Care, supporting Thomas Glen who carries the Digital Portfolio. Dawn’s interest is how digital developments can enable seamless access to services, improved customer experience, and more efficient working practices for colleagues across health and care. And ultimately, improved outcomes.

Dawn held several roles for Cumbria County Council, including Monitoring Officer and also Corporate Director for Resources and Transformation.  Prior to Cumbria, Dawn was a head of service for Hull City Council leading significant areas of improvement and strategy.  She has a background in academic research, however her local government career began in 1996 in the coalfields of South Yorkshire, facilitating and supporting regeneration through action research and engagement with local communities and community organisations.