The Committee for Geelong has announced new CEO Michael Johnston, who will move across from his current position as Hockey Australia’s chief strategic officer and general counsel to begin in the role in mid-February.
Mr Johnston, who grew up in Geelong and completed his training as a lawyer with Coulter Legal, is currently an independent member of the Corporate Governance Committee at the Geelong Football Club and also serves on the board of Tidy HQ.
The new CEO said his previous roles at Hockey Australia and the Australian Sports Commission in Canberra gave him fresh eyes with which to appreciate his hometown.
“Geelong has got the ultimately lifestyle; it’s got a community feel that you don’t get in a larger major city, and you can also have great career opportunities,” he said.
“There are so many cultural and sporting things to do and we have our own identity; Geelong people identify so proudly that they are from Geelong.
“I know so many people in a similar life stage to me who left for uni or other opportunities, and now have kids and families and feel the lure of coming back here, where you have more bang for your buck from housing and affordability perspectives.”
Mr Johnston said the opportunities for continued growth and development in Geelong had enticed him to apply for the role.
“Obviously coming most recently from the sport industry, the announcement of the Commonwealth Games really piqued my interest in regards to the opportunities for Geelong and the surrounding communities over the next few years,” he said.
“But I also want to look beyond that 2026 delivery date and into the legacy opportunity that provides.
“We have this unprecedented growth as a region that we’re in, but its about the balance you can have while living here.
“And that becomes the challenge; how to maintain that community feel and balance that’s bringing people to Geelong in droves while also growing at a sustainable rate.”
Chair for the Committee of Geelong Chris Pugh said Mr Johnston’s love for Geelong and previous experience made him a perfect fit for the role.
“The Committee for Geelong has a clear strategic vision to advocate for economic and social prosperity for the people of Geelong,” Mr Pugh said.
“Michael impressed us with his understanding of the issues facing Geelong and how to advocate for Geelong’s best future.”
