Changes are in the works for the management leadership within White County's government services.
The White County Board of Commissioners has announced this week that leadership transition is coming, as County Manager Billy Pittard prepares to step down from his role as County Manager on January 10, 2025 to focus on personal obligations at his family farm in Oglethorpe County.
A press release from White County's Board of Commissioners says that In response, they have selected current Public Works Director and Assistant Count Manager Derick Canupp, as the sole finalist to succeed Pittard as County Manager. The Board plans to hold an official vote in November 2024.
Additionally, Shanda Murphy, the current County Clerk and Human Resources Director, will assume the role of Assistant County Manager.
Derick Canupp has served as White County’s Public Works Director since 2021. He was appointed Assistant County Manager in July 2023. A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Canupp has a wealth of experience in construction management, having overseen large-scale projects across the southeastern U.S. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Project Management from Liberty University.
Shanda Murphy has been a key member of White County’s leadership team since 2005, starting as Human Resources Director before being named County Clerk in 2008. Murphy graduated from White County High School and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from North Georgia College. In 2024, Shanda was named the County Clerk of the Year by the Georgia Association of County Clerks. Beginning in January she will take on the additional responsibilities of Assistant County Manager.
