State steps in for city boss search

VICTORIA’S local government watchdog will oversee the City of Greater Geelong’s recruitment of a new chief executive officer amid suspicion the process has become “compromised”.

Local Government Minister Melissa Horne revealed on Wednesday this week that she would appoint two municipal monitors to assist the city in its process of hiring a new chief executive officer.

The minister’s decision follows a recommendation from-Chief Municipal Inspector Michael Stefanovic – who supervises council compliance with state government legislation – and Local Government Victoria.

It is a result of an investigation from the Inspector into the city’s hiring process, which is ongoing.

Ms Horne is expected to appoint monitors and outline their roles in the coming days to “ensure the council delivers good governance” in its recruitment of a new boss.

“Councils are the level of government closest to the people and it is imperative that they represent the communities they serve,” she said.

“We expect councils to maintain a standard of good governance and this process of installing two monitors is about ensuring that it occurs at the City of Greater Geelong.”

The city indicated it would work with the government delegates to further its recruitment process.

“The City of Greater Geelong is committed to delivering the best outcomes for its community through its robust good governance processes, integrity and transparency,” a spokesperson said.

“Strong leadership is vital for the city and securing the best candidate for the role of chief executive officer will be critical to Greater Geelong’s future.

“We look forward to working with the Victorian Government to ensure exceptional leadership for the City of Greater Geelong.”

Martin Cutter announced his intention to resign as CEO on July 7 last year and left the council in September.

The city promoted Kaarina Phyland to interim CEO in late August from her role as strategy, people and performance director.

The City of Greater Geelong engaged recruiters One(n2a) in August to help its search for a new boss. At the time, the city indicated at the time it expected the process to take “around six months”.