A new chief executive officer has been appointed to lead Cardinia Shire Council for the next five years.
Following an extensive independent recruitment process, councillors unanimously voted to appoint James Collins during a special council meeting on Tuesday night.
With more than 15 years executive experience, Mr Collins is currently director of city planning and infrastructure at the City of Casey. Before that, he was director of social and economic development at Yarra Ranges Council, and also has 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 chief executive 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.
"James has a very grounded and authentic leadership style with extensive experience in local government, particularly within neighbouring councils.
"This along with a common sense 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.
Cr Kowarzik said Mr Collins had a strong history in advocacy, having worked on Cardinia campaigns including the Thompsons Rd extension, and the South East Melbourne Airport as part of the Greater South East Melbourne Councils Group.
Mr Collins said he was excited about the opportunity to 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."
Mr Collins will begin work at Cardinia on October 13.
Cr Kowarzik acknowledged the work of interim ceo Peter Benazic who led the organisation following the resignation of former ceo Carol Jeffs in June.