A vision for Dundee

A University of Dundee accountancy alumnus from 2000, Greg has held various roles since joining the council eleven years ago, from Head of Corporate Debt & Welfare Reform, to Head of Customer Services & IT and since 2020, Chief Executive Officer.   

“Having set my sights on studying accountancy, I was attracted to the University of Dundee because it had an excellent rating for its teaching facilities. I was also aware that the University had an amazing student union – the University offers a great all-round package for students, with excellent teaching facilities being complemented by brilliant social facilities. These factors persuaded me to stay in my home city and apply to the University.” reflected Greg. 

 A key part of my role is to provide strategic leadership, direction and vision, and to ensure the effective and efficient management of the council and its services. 

“My work with elected members is extremely important as these councillors are representatives of the citizens of Dundee and take decisions about the strategic direction of the city. Ultimately, what we want to do is achieve better outcomes for the city and its people.” 

The city has seen some remarkable changes over the last few years including the revitalised waterfront which has changed Dundee’s appearance dramatically, something Greg has huge pride in. 

“As a Dundonian, I love the city and am very proud to see how it has transformed over the past few years. There has been an ambitious programme of investment in the Waterfront, V&A Dundee and also in the city’s infrastructure, including our school estate.” 

“The council is on a journey to help improve attainment, and our children and modern educational facilities are key to that. Dundee is forging ahead with the expansion of early years and childcare to give young children the very best start to their education possible.” 

“Dundee really is a place that is on the move. The potential that exists to further improve Dundee and establish it as a top destination in Scotland is really exciting. Our people are passionate about their city and we are lucky to have strong partnerships across the public, private and third sectors, working together to bring about more change.” 

Talking further on his vision for his home city Greg is very passionate about future opportunities. 

“The city council and its partners are committed to improving the lives of everyone in Dundee and making it a better place to live in, to visit and to study in. That includes everything from the quality of our nursery schools through to care of the elderly. There are still many new opportunities available for Dundee through the investment that is being unlocked by the Tay Cities Deal into innovation projects, including those at the University of Dundee. 

“Our shared City Plan showcases a vision of a strong and sustainable city economy that provides jobs for the people of Dundee, retains more graduates and makes the city a magnet for new talent. We want Dundee to be a vibrant and attractive city where the root causes of social and economic exclusion have been tackled. Although serious challenges exist, I am convinced that there are many positive developments ahead for the city and all of its people. Fairness is a cornerstone of our approach to policy and, whilst much remains to be done, I am proud of the positive changes that have already been made across Dundee.” 

Making the city an attractive place to be, that encourages people to come to visit, study and live means a tremendous amount to Greg. He fondly remembers his own experience of studying at the University.  

“My degree in accountancy provided me with a wide range of skills which have enabled me to work in various roles, which have all been based within Dundee. The Union is one of the best venues in Scotland and I always had great times there. I also remember long days and nights in the library preparing for exams. I am proud to be a graduate of the University of Dundee and my graduation day in 2000 is such a fantastic memory.”