Geelong’s mayor wants a new council chief who can “work with me”.
Bruce Harwood made the stipulation after the previous chief quit the day following his appointment as mayor in November.
Cr Harwood revealed his expectations of Kelvin Spiller’s replacement as recruitment advertising commenced last week.
“Relationships are key to future prosperity, so we are looking for someone who can work with me and the council to strategically plan for the infrastructure and services that are needed by our growing community,” Cr Harwood said.
“There is also a need to ensure the community voice is listened to, as we plan for the growth and sustainability of our region.
“It’s an exciting time to be in Geelong with a refreshed council, a growing sector of government agencies who are bringing increased investment and skyline to the city centre, and a thriving creative business environment.”
Experience and good listening skills were also important, Cr Harwood said.
“We’re looking for an experienced leader who is a natural communicator with council, staff, community and our many stakeholder organisations.
“It’s important the person has the understanding and ability to lead a diverse team of 2700 people and continue to grow a positive workplace culture.”
Councillors appointed Cr Harwood mayor at their 13 November swearing-in following his re-election as a former member of the sacked previous council.
Mr Spiller, who was chief executive officer when the council was sacked, announced his resignation on 14 November.
“My decision to resign should in no way reflect negatively on the new council,” he said at the time.
“In fact, I had given confidential notice of my intentions to the Local Government Department well before last night’s swearing-in process.”
Mr Spiller said he would leave City Hall at the end of March, six months before the end of his contract.
He was looking forward to “a break in Italy or France for a few months” but declined to say whether he had lined up a new job.
At the time Cr Harwood described Mr Spiller’s resignation as “unexpected”.
The recruitment campaign for Mr Spiller’s replacement included national print advertising and “various online sites”, City Hall said.
“Recruitment agency Davidson has been appointed to conduct the search.
“Council is seeking a leader with a strong track record for building a team of can-do people to continue building the City of Greater Geelong into a more strategically focused and community responsive organisation.”
