The City of Greater Geelong has appointed Ali Wastie as it’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and confirmed she’ll assume the role on August 28.
It ends a troubled 12-month long search for a new city chief that in January prompted the state government to appointment monitors to investigate and oversee the recruitment process.
Ms Wastie, currently the Bass Coast Shire CEO, will take over from acting CEO Kaarina Phyland who took leave from council this week.
The city has been without a permanent CEO since the exit of Martin Cutter in August last year.
Announcing her appointment to the role, Ms Wastie spoke of her “longstanding” connection to the region where she has family and friends.
“I am feeling very privileged to be appointed as CEO for the City of Greater Geelong and I am looking forward to commencing in the role on 28 August,” Ms Wastie said.
“Delivering on the community’s vision and Council’s plans and objectives in a period of growth, change and opportunity will be my focus.”
Mayor Trent Sullivan praised the Ms Phyland for her role overseeing the city during a difficult period that saw several directors depart before the end of their tenure, and a council restructure that made 19 jobs redundant before unveliling a deeply unpopular budget that slashed funding for services.
“Kaarina has overseen a period that has transformed the city into a more efficient and high-performing organisation,” Cr Sullivan said.
“Under her leadership we have made progress on delivering the community’s Clever and Creative vision and the Council is thankful for Kaarina’s valuable contribution.”
CrSullivan also thanked the state government appointment municipal monitors Prue Digby and Peter Dorling “for their assistance in the CEO recruitment process.”
Councillors are due to consider whether to endorse the city’s controversial draft 2023-24 budget at general council meeting next week.
Ali Wastie will take over as Geelong Council CEO in August (supplied).
