Cardinia Shire Council is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation for the next five years, following an extensive independent recruitment process.
At a Special Council Meeting last night, councillors voted unanimously to appoint Mr James Collins to the CEO role.
With more than 15 years executive experience, Mr Collins is currently the Director of City Planning and Infrastructure at the City of Casey. Prior to that he was the Director of Social and Economic Development at Yarra Ranges Council, and has also held leadership roles at Monash City Council and Banyule City Council.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik said Mr Collins was chosen from a strong field of candidates for the CEO role.
"We received strong interest from a number of exceptional candidates for the CEO role, which speaks to the exciting opportunities this role offers – not only to lead the organisation, but also to help shape one of Melbourne's largest growing communities," Mayor Kowarzik said.
"James has a very grounded and authentic leadership style with extensive experience in local government, particularly within neighbouring councils.
"This along with a commonsense approach positions him well to leverage the opportunities in front of us, while also addressing the many challenges ahead. He understands and will be able to balance the needs of diverse rural and urban communities, manage significant asset portfolios, and secure external funding to address infrastructure gaps.
"He has a strong history in advocacy, having worked on Cardinia campaigns including the Thompsons Road extension, and the South East Melbourne Airport as part of the Greater South East Melbourne Councils Group.
"With this experience and ability to build strong relationships across community and government sectors, I'm confident James will thrive in this role."
Mr Collins said he was excited about the opportunity to join Cardinia Shire Council and lead the organisation over the next five years.
"It's an honour to have been appointed to this role, and I'm really looking forward to joining Cardinia and getting to know the councillors, staff and the wider Cardinia community," Mr Collins said.
"Cardinia is a dynamic, diverse, and evolving municipality, rich with opportunities and challenges.
"I'm looking forward to leading the next phase of its development and to collaborate with the dedicated Cardinia team, delivering real results for the community, now and for generations to come."
Mayor Kowarzik said he looked forward to welcoming Mr Collins to the CEO role when he starts on 13 October.
"On behalf of Cardinia Shire councillors and staff, I'd like to congratulate James for his appointment to this important role, and look forward to working with him as we continue to deliver services for our community and progress our key Council Plan initiatives.
"I'd also like to thank Peter Benazic for his support and work in leading the organisation as Interim CEO following the resignation of former CEO Carol Jeffs back in June."
