NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council has appointed a new chief executive officer.
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Liana Thompson was appointed chief executive officer at a Special Council Meeting on October 14 for a five-year term.
Her appointment comes after Michael Bailey's resignation in August after three years in the top job.
Ms Thompson, who was working as a former director at Whittlesea Council, will take the reins on November 25.
Northern Grampians Mayor Kevin Erwin said a competitive recruitment process for the role was conducted, and Ms Thompson was selected for her extensive knowledge of, and enthusiasm for, local government and communities.
Eighteen candidates applied in total, with five interviewed.
"We attracted a number of high-quality candidates which made it difficult to choose, but we are very pleased to appoint Liana to the CEO position," Cr Erwin said. "We had an independent person do the recruitment ... it was a fairly exhaustive process."
Cr Erwin said Ms Thompson's remuneration package was in line with expected salaries for small rural councils, but declined to name a figure.
The median salary for the role in small to medium rural councils is $234,757, though Cr Erwin said Ms Thompson was probably "taking a pay cut."
Ms Thompson has spent the past 25 years working in local government in Victoria at every level - mayor, councillor and officer - and is currently Director of Planning, Partnerships and Engagement at the City of Whittlesea.
She is also vice-president of Local Government Professionals, a leading voice for local government professionals, and is a former president of peak body Victorian Local Government Association, where she is also a life member.
"I am thrilled to be appointed the next CEO of Northern Grampians Shire Council," Ms Thompson said. "I look forward to embracing the opportunities that exist, harnessing those that are emerging, and fulfilling my role to ensure that the people who live and work in the Northern Grampians are proud of our region's rich history, and excited by the innovation and growth that is coming."
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Ms Thompson holds a Master's degree in Business Administration, Diploma of Management and Diploma of Social Science (Community Development).
Interim chief executive officer Vaughn Williams will continue to occupy the role until Ms Thompson commences with the council.
Mr Williams will then return to his role as director corporate services.
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