Two councillors with strong community roots have been appointed to lead Devon County Council’s civic duties for the coming year.
At a meeting of the Full Council today it was confirmed that Councillor Rosie Dawson will be the new Chair of Devon County Council, with Councillor Syed Jusef as Vice Chair.
Councillor Dawson, who represents the Dawlish division, brings a wealth of experience to the role, serving in local government at town, district and county level.
She has built a strong track record of community-focused leadership, having previously been Mayor of Dawlish and Chair of Teignbridge District Council, and most recently Vice Chair of the County Council following her election in 2025.
Her experience, including work on the Health and Adult Care Scrutiny Committee, reflect a strong commitment to supporting local people and improving services.
As Chair of the Council, Councillor Dawson will take on an ambassadorial role, representing Devon at community and ceremonial events across the county and promoting public involvement in the work of the authority.
She will also preside over Full Council meetings, ensuring discussions are run fairly and in line with the Council’s constitution.
The role is politically neutral and does not involve executive decision-making, which sits with the Council’s Cabinet and Leader.
Speaking about her appointment, Councillor Dawson said:
“Devon is a fantastic place with strong, proud communities, and I’m really looking forward to meeting people across the county, and celebrating what makes Devon so special.
“I’m honoured to take on the role of Chair and have the opportunity to highlight the work happening in our communities and to make sure people feel connected to the Council and the services we provide.”
Councillor Syed Jusef, who represents Barnstaple North, will serve as Vice Chair, supporting Councillor Dawson in representing the Council at events, and helping to ensure proceedings are conducted in an orderly and respectful way.
Elected to the County Council in 2025, Councillor Jusef is also North Devon District Council’s member for Barnstaple Central and has been actively involved in local initiatives to improve community safety and wellbeing.
A long-standing resident of North Devon, he brings a strong understanding of local communities, alongside more than a decade of experience advising Devon and Cornwall Police on hate crime, supporting efforts to promote inclusion and community cohesion.
Like the Chair, the Vice Chair role is non-political and focused on representing the Council and its communities.
Councillor Syed Jusef, Vice Chair of Devon County Council, said:
“I’m proud to take on the role of Vice Chair and to represent the Council across Devon, building strong connections with communities and making sure everyone feels included, respected and heard.”
Together, the Chair and Vice Chair play an important role in supporting the democratic process and representing Devon County Council across the county, helping to promote engagement with residents, communities and partner organisations.
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