By Rowan Forster
Cardinia Shire has unveiled Carol Jeffs as the council’s new chief executive officer, approximately five months after Garry McQuillan announced his retirement.
Councillors unanimously voted to appoint Ms Jeffs the top job on a five-year term at a special council meeting on Monday night.
Boasting an extensive resume in the local government sector, she has held positions as interim CEO and general manager of the City of Port Phillip, and was previously a general manager at Latrobe City Council.
Ms Jeffs and her team – consisting of 11.5 EFT – will share a remuneration package of $2.38 million over the next financial year, $300,000 less than what was paid to the outgoing CEO and his colleagues.
The selection comes after a lengthy recruitment process, which engaged a selection panel and external specialists.
Ms Jeffs said she was excited to deliver high quality services and infrastructure across the region.
“As a proud Cardinia Shire resident, I am delighted to have this opportunity to make a difference in a place that I know and love,” she said.
“I look forward to advocating strongly for what Cardinia Shire needs going forward and engaging with residents, community groups, farmers, businesses and landowners, as we take up the challenge of creating a future we can all be proud of.”
Ms Jeffs holds a Bachelor of Business and Master of Economics, is a Harvard University Executive Program graduate and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
She has lived in the region for more than four years, and has more than 15 years’ experience in the industry.
Cardinia Shire mayor Collin Ross said he was thrilled with the appointment of Ms Jeffs.
“Carol comes to Cardinia Shire Council with extensive experience in local government management and leadership, and a demonstrated commitment to community engagement and participation,” he said.
“As one of Australia’s fastest growing municipalities, it is essential that we continue to deliver quality services and infrastructure to our established and new communities in the most efficient way possible.
“Carol is an outstanding choice to ensure the organisation is well-placed to meet the challenge.”
Mr McQuillan, who has been in the role for 11 years, will officially pass the torch on 8 October.
