The City of Concord promoted Joel White to Director of Buildings and Grounds where he will lead the building maintenance and custodial services for 70 City facilities as well as the grounds maintenance for more than 400 acres of City-owned parks, greenways, and properties. As Director, White also leads the City’s cemetery division and the urban forestry division that works to protect and enhance Concord’s tree canopy.
White joined the City of Concord in 2017 as the Grounds Manager before being promoted to Deputy Director of Buildings and Grounds in 2019 and Interim Director in April 2025. Throughout his tenure, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and a strong commitment to delivering great customer service.
Over the last six years, White has played a critical role in streamlining the Buildings and Grounds Department’s maintenance operations, improving facility safety and leading numerous key initiatives, including work essential to the success of the City’s Parks and Recreation General Obligation Bond projects – something White is especially proud of and looking forward to seeing the new parks opened for families to enjoy.
“Joel is a tremendous asset to Team Concord, and his knowledge and employee-centric demeanor will continue to serve our community into the future,” said City Manager Payne.
As a native of Concord, giving back to the community is especially important to White.
“It is humbling and a privilege to be named Director and have the opportunity to serve the community where I was raised and where I am now raising my family,” he said. “My goal is to consistently lead the exceptional team members in our department and continue our pledge to be good stewards of City resources while providing excellent service to our coworkers and the community.”
White received his Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Agronomy from Central Piedmont Community College and his Bachelor of Science (BS) from Liberty University. He is a past president of the North South Turf Grass Association and earned the Facility Management Professional designation through the International Facility Management Association.
Prior to joining the City, he spent 17 years in golf course management, including as the Superintendent at Rocky River Golf Club in Concord. While at Rocky River Golf Club, he led a major renovation of the 20-year-old course, resulting in the club’s ranking as a Top 100 golf course in North Carolina.
In his spare time, White enjoys hunting and fishing with his wife and two daughters. He is also active in his local church and currently serves as a neighborhood liaison through the City’s Partnership for Stronger Neighborhoods program.
White’s promotion to Director of Buildings and Grounds was effective July 7, 2025.
