Linda Crew, an employee at the Beechwood Home Accessories at 47 Beechwood Avenue, is busy at work. - Winston Sill/Photographer

Dorothy Whyte is the new executive director at the Women's Resource and Outreach Centre (WROC) on Beechwood Avenue. The organisation is dedicated to the development of inner-city and rural women.

According to chairperson of WROC, Linnette Vassell, "Ms Whyte comes with strong management skills developed through years of experience at senior levels in finance and research and excellent interpersonal and communication skills. With a strong background in management, she is expected to contribute to the organisational strengthening of this organisation."

Whyte assumed her new role on September 15, having previously worked at the Office of the Prime Minister where she provided technical support to the development council and facilitated the implementation of the objectives of the National Industrial Policy.

She was also an investment analyst with Citizens Bank, and with the treasury department of the Baha'i World Centre in Haifa, Israel. She also worked as mortgage manager with Caribbean Housing Finance Corporation. Whyte has served with numerous voluntary organisations, such as: the United Nations Association of Jamaica and the Sir Howard Cooke Character Development Centre in Nannyville. According to Vassell, "Whyte will focus on the strategic priorities of the organisation, as we continue to serve women and their families."

Dorothy Whyte

WROC programmes

WROC runs a weekly medical clinic for women and their families and also offers family planning and wellness services, as well as care for the elderly. A homework centre is opened daily for students. WROC's sustainable livelihoods programmes provides training and assistance to small farmers in St Thomas, mostly women.