City names Acting CEO

THE City of Greater Geelong has named Kaarina Phyland as its new Acting Chief Executive Officer until its new permanent CEO is found.

Ms Phyland has served as the city’s director of strategy, people and performance and has been with the organisation since May 2018.

The city announced her appointment today (Wednesday, August 24), and she will begin a handover period with outgoing chief executive officer Martin Cutter.

The council has appointed leading recruitment firm One(n2a) to assist in the search for and selection of the new chief executive officer.

One(n2a) will begin a public recruitment process in the near future. The process is expected to take around six months.

Geelong mayor Peter Murrihy congratulated Ms Phyland on her appointment on behalf of the council.

“We have confidence that Kaarina will lead the organisation in a strong and effective manner while the CEO recruitment process takes place,” he said.

“We look forward to working with One(n2a) to fill this important and critical role for our community.”

Ms Phyland said she was “pleased and humbled to be given this opportunity to act as the CEO for the city.”

“I look forward to working in collaboration with councillors and the executive team to continue to deliver for our community.”