Dave reflects on long career of dedicated public service

After an impressive career spanning almost 48 years, Dave Henderson - our Team Manager for Road Operations - is about to step into retirement.

Dave’s career journey began in 1978 when he joined George Wimpey & Co as a trainee site engineer, choosing a hands-on career outdoors over an apprenticeship in mechanical engineering. “I wanted to work outside rather than in a factory,” he recalls. It was a decision that set the tone for a varied and fulfilling professional life.

His first assignment, the A71 East Calder bypass, proved memorable for more than one reason. “I almost took my finger off within the first week hammering steel pins,” Dave says, reflecting on the steep learning curve of his early days. Despite this, he thrived under Wimpey’s extensive training culture, learning key skills such as levelling, setting out and land surveying. 

Over the following years, Dave worked across Scotland on a range of major projects, including developments at Edinburgh Airport and roles within design and surveying teams. In 1988, he moved to Morrison Construction as a Senior Engineer, where he contributed to projects such as the Dunblane Hydro extension, Barony Castle refurbishment, housing developments in Dundee, and a retail park in Glasgow. While he enjoyed the diversity of work, it was an extremely demanding role with long hours.

Dave’s move into the public sector came in February 1989 when he joined Lothian Regional Council’s INROADS department as a Measurement Engineer. From there, he progressed into programming and planning, helping to shape workstreams during a period of significant organisational change when the region split into four councils in 1996.

“I was asked where I would like to work, and being from Edinburgh my first choice was Edinburgh followed by East Lothian,” he says. “I am happy that I have achieved both choices and I have loved working in East Lothian as it is such a lovely location.” He fondly recalls the simple pleasures of the job too. “I do like driving to work when the sun is coming up in the East in the summer months, though not so much in the winter at 4.30am for gritting!”

In September 2016, Dave joined East Lothian Council, working within Road Services under Alan Stubbs. What he initially expected to be a five-year stint soon extended into nearly a decade. “I have enjoyed things so much I have stayed a bit longer,” he says.

Leadership

Dave takes particular pride in developing others and being a supportive leader. “I really enjoy working for the roads team and hope that I have brought some of my expertise and man management skills,” he explains. “I do encourage staff to take any training offered to develop themselves. It is time for me to pass things on to a younger team who I am sure will be successful.”

Throughout his career, Dave emphasised the importance of mutual respect. “I have met lots of different characters over my career, and I have found if you speak to people with respect you normally get respect back. Be fair but firm in what you want,” he reflects.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dave has led a remarkably active and fulfilling life outside work. A keen runner since 1982, he has completed nine marathons, around 80 half marathons and numerous other races. His personal bests - 2 hours 51 minutes for the marathon, 1 hour 19 minutes for the half, and 35 minutes for 10K- reflect his commitment. Since 1992, he has also coached endurance athletes at Corstorphine Athletic Club. “I take great pleasure when my athletes have PBs ( personal bests )  and they say it’s down to the coaching and the club atmosphere,” he explains.

Family has always remained central to Dave’s life, and he counts his proudest moments as those when his children - Allana, Sarah and Rory - graduated from university. “I am a proud dad,” he says.

New chapter

As he looks ahead to retirement, Dave admits it will take some adjustment. “I am not sure what it will be like to be retired as I have never done it before!” he jokes. But his plans suggest a full and active new chapter. He is looking forward to spending time with his wife Lorna, tending to their garden and allotment, walking their dog Troon, and helping care for his grandchildren, Maisie and Alfie.

There will also be more time for golf at Turnhouse, where he hopes to lower his handicap to single figures as well as continued involvement in running and coaching. A golf trip to Turkey is already on the calendar, alongside a list of home improvement projects.

Reflecting on his long career, Dave speaks positively of all his employers, including East Lothian Council. As he hands over responsibility to the next generation, his legacy is one of professionalism, mentorship, and a genuine love for the work.  I will miss the buzz of Road Services dealing with different situations as they occur.  

Alan Stubbs, Service Manager for Roads, said:

“Dave has worked closely with colleagues across many services, earning widespread respect for his professionalism, knowledge, and commitment. He has played a vital role in leading the management , development, and coordination of frontline staff across a wide range of activities and has also been involved in supporting major events as well as local community events.

“He has also played a key role in managing winter maintenance and responding to severe weather events and road emergencies across East Lothian Council. He has consistently worked long hours in challenging severe weather conditions, night shifts, and over many public holiday periods. Together with his colleagues, Dave has been a constant presence, working tirelessly to ensure that our roads and public spaces remain safe and accessible. His dedication to public safety has been unwavering, often requiring significant personal sacrifice. Much of this work goes unseen, but without Dave and his team, the county would quickly come to a standstill. His commitment and professionalism are very much appreciated, and he will be greatly missed by his colleagues in Road Services and across the council.

“We thank him for his years of dedicated service and wish him a long, happy, and well-deserved retirement.”