Council
7 February, 2024
Moyne appoints interim CEO as search begins
MOYNE Shire councillors voted to approve Peter Brown as acting chief executive officer following the surprise resignation of Brett Davis.
At this week’s Ordinary Meeting of Council, councillors followed the recommendation to appoint Mr Brown until the search for a new CEO concludes.
The move will give council a period of at least three months to recruit a new CEO from February 19, with a possible two-month extension also an option.
The decision was made after Moyne Shire mayor Cr Ian Smith “reluctantly” accepted the resignation of incumbent CEO Brett Davis last week.
Mr Davis will step down to serve as Victoria’s cross-border commissioner.
Cr Daniel Mead said he was happy to move the motion.
“We know Mr Brown well; he’s served in executive in a fill-in role numerous times in the past three or four years,” he said.
“He knows councillors, and he knows how council operates.
“I’m sure he will fit in with the interim CEO role quite well, and be able to continue the good work and keep us pointing forward as a council.”
Cr Karen Foster seconded the motion, saying Mr Brown was well known and held in high regard at Moyne Shire Council.
“Earlier (Tuesday) we did meet as a council to discuss the process of appointing a new CEO as we go along, and I think it’s been in the forefront of all our minds that we ensure as much stability as possible.
“Mr Brown, I’m sure will bring that to us; he’s a very safe and capable pair of hands.”
Mr Brown boasts diverse experience as a local government professional, including as CEO for both Colac Otway Shire and Horsham Rural City councils.
He has also held additional senior roles including director of corporate services at Warrnambool City Council, and has multiple stints as acting director of corporate services at Moyne Shire Council.
While current Moyne directors could have been considered to fill the role, Mr Brown’s appointment was deemed as a step to ensure operational impacts are minimalised as directors continue in their role.
A recruitment process for a permanent CEO will now commence pursuant to relevant policy.
Cr Damian Gleeson offered his thanks to council officers Ed Small, Edith Farrell and Jodie McNamara for their role in simplifying the process.
“I know we’re going through a busy six months ahead, I know the budget is going to be our key focus, and those three will have important jobs,” he said.
“What they have done by allowing us to do this is make our job a little bit easier.
“I thank you for your understanding and appreciate all that you do.”
Cr Ian Smith congratulated Mr Brown on his interim appointment.
“He will provide an experienced and steady hand as we move through the budget process, and in the recruitment of a new CEO,” he said.
“We are pleased he has agreed to return to Moyne and look forward to working with him again.”
The motion was unanimously approved.