White County Announces Leadership Transition: Billy Pittard Departs, Derick Canupp Named Sole Finalist for County Manager

October 22, 2024 – Cleveland, Georgia – The White County Board of Commissioners has announced a leadership transition 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. In response, the Board has selected Derick Canupp, current Public Works Director and Assistant County Manager, 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.

Naming Canupp as Assistant County Manager in July 2023 was part of succession planning efforts by the White County Board of Commissioners. Chairman Travis Turner expressed confidence in the new leadership team, stating: “Derick and Shanda bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for public service that will carry White County forward.” Turner continues, “Derick’s strong leadership and Shanda’s deep institutional knowledge make them the perfect team to lead our county. We’re fortunate to have such dedicated and capable leaders ready to step up.”

In his time as County Manager, Billy Pittard has been instrumental in improving the efficiency of White County’s services. Though his departure comes earlier than expected, Pittard has agreed to stay on as a consultant for the three months following the January 10, 2025 turn over to ensure a smooth transition for Canupp.

Billy Pittard comments on this transition, "I have very much enjoyed my time in White County and we have accomplished some great things during this time. I really appreciate this Board and while I did not anticipate making this move this early, I feel like this will be a great opportunity for Derick, Shanda, and even myself."

“We are incredibly grateful for Billy’s leadership and the impact he’s made on White County,” said Turner. “He’s been open with us about his need to focus on his family’s farm, and we fully support his decision. With this new leadership in place, White County’s is in very good hands.”

About Derick Canupp

Derick Canupp has served as White County’s Public Works Director since 2021, where he successfully led the County Road and Solid Waste Departments. 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. In his previous role as Public Works Director for Habersham County, Canupp gained a deep passion for public service, which he continues to build upon in White County. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Project Management from Liberty University. Canupp resides in Clarkesville with his wife and two children and is active in his local church and community.

About Shanda Murphy

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 is a White County native with deep ties to the community, having 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. Throughout her tenure, she has played a critical role in streamlining county operations and improving employee relations. Beginning in January 2025, she will take on the additional responsibilities of Assistant County Manager, continuing her long-standing commitment to the county’s success.