Cllr Balwinder Singh Dhillon was born in November 1955 in Kot Jaspat, District Tarn Taran (Amritsar), Punjab, India. In October 1974, he embarked on a journey to the United Kingdom, marking the beginning of a remarkable life of achievements in business and Slough Conservatives Party politics. Settling in Slough since December 1979, he built a successful career, transitioning from a greengrocer to a takeaway shop owner, while raising a family with his beloved wife, Gurpreet.
In the early 2000s, Cllr Dhillon expanded his professional pursuits, joining Abbey Life Woodley Reading and Sun Life of Canada (Maidenhead) insurance companies. He later ventured into property investment, building a diverse portfolio across Central London, including Camden, Highgate, Hackney, City of London Corporation, Tower Hamlets, Southwark, and Wandsworth. Beyond his own successes, he generously mentored friends in the field, contributing to the growth of their properties in London area
Cllr Balwinder Dhillon’s political career began in March 1992, when the late John Watts MP invited him to join the Slough Conservative Party. In June 2004, he was encouraged by Mr Nik Stewart, then Chairman of the Slough Conservative Association, to stand as a candidate for Upton Ward in Slough. His leadership played a pivotal role in defeating Labour in all three Upton Ward seats.
After a brief hiatus, he re-entered politics in 2022, reinvigorating the Slough Conservative Association. Under his leadership, the association achieved a historic victory in May 2023, securing a majority with 21 Conservative councillors, working closely with Chairman Cllr Ahmed Iftakhar.
In May 2023, Cllr Dhillon was proposed by Cllr Dexter Smith to be Deputy Mayor of Slough, and in May 2024, he made history as the **first Sikh Conservative Mayor of Slough, Berkshire**.
In his acceptance speech, he expressed his gratitude for the privilege of serving as Slough’s First Citizen, pledging to work collaboratively with councillors from all parties, ensuring fairness and equal opportunities for all representatives to advocate for their residents. He emphasized his commitment to addressing the key issues affecting the people of Slough, serving with integrity, and treating all with respect.
Throughout his tenure, Cllr Dhillon has remained dedicated to resolving local issues, working alongside senior council officers to swiftly and effectively address concerns under challenging circumstances.
As Mayor, he has proudly championed the NHS, recognizing the invaluable contributions of doctors, dentists, nurses, and voluntary organizations. He has met many vulnerable community members receiving exceptional care in NHS facilities and care homes, demonstrating his deep appreciation for their tireless service.
Over the course of his mayoral duties, Cllr Dhillon has attended over 100 engagements across Slough and Berkshire. He has had the honour of meeting distinguished figures, including Lieutenants and Deputy Lieutenants of HM King Charles III, while also officiating British Citizenship ceremonies every other Wednesday.
Cllr Dhillon takes immense pride in serving all members of the community with honour, integrity, and unwavering dedication, ensuring his tenure leaves a lasting positive impact on the people of Slough.