FORMER City of Bendigo director of strategy and growth Bernie O’Sullivan is the new chief executive at Macedon Ranges Shire Councill.
The council decided on Mr O’Sullivan’s appointment in the confidential part of its ordinary meeting on Wednesday.
Prior to being at Bendigo, Mr O’Sullivan was acting chief executive at the Institute of Public Administration Australia and worked as deputy secretary of regional services for the Victorian departments of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and Environment and Primary Industries.
He also worked in senior leadership roles in policy, management and advocacy in Sydney and Canberra for 15 years
Mr O’Sullivan will start with council on May 10, and begin by working to finalise and achieve the objectives of the new council plan.
He will also focus on engaging with community and businesses, delivering on capital works projects, and ensuring the organisation is able to deliver a strong customer experience through the use of contemporary technology.
Mr O’Sullivan said he was looking forward to working together with council, staff and the community.
”It is going to be highly rewarding to return to my home region and make a positive difference to our local community,” he said.
“There are great opportunities to contribute to an optimistic and liveable future for the Macedon Ranges, and I’m keen to ensure the community is at the centre of our work.”
Mayor Jennifer Anderson said the appointment of Mr O’Sullivan followed a national recruitment campaign that attracted a high standard of candidates.
“Bernie O’Sullivan brings a wealth of experience in leadership and a strong understanding of the issues impacting regional Victoria, especially in the Loddon Mallee region, which we are a part of,” she said.
“We are very excited to have someone of Bernie’s calibre and local knowledge join our team.”
Mr O’Sullivan replaces John Nevins, who has been acting chief executive officer since October following the resignation Margot Stork.
