New chief for Yarra Ranges
Bryan Allchin
16May08
YARRA Ranges Shire appointed a new chief executive officer this morning.
After an 8am special council meeting, Mayor Tim Heenan announced that Glenn Patterson will take over as the councils top manager from July 7.
"Glenn has a wealth of experience in local government, a passion for serving the community and a strong values-based leadership style," Cr Heenan said.
" Glenn takes over with the shire in a sound financial position and highly regarded for its commitment to the environment and actions aimed at tackling climate change."
Mr Patterson, who has 19 years' experience in local government management, will leave his job as chief executive of the neighbouring Baw Baw Shire.
Mr Patterson said he was pleased to have secured the new job.
"The Yarra Ranges is a very special place with world class landscape values and a rich and diverse cultural base. It also has a range of growth, environmental and social challenges, he said.
"My leadership philosophy is based on principles of business excellence and sustainable long-term thinking."
Prior to his stint at Baw Baw, Mr Patterson was the chief executive at the Colac Otway council from 1998 to 2002.
He also has a Bachelor of Business in Local Government and an MBA, and is married with two young children.
Cr Heenan paid tribute to the work of outgoing chief executive Rob Hauser, who surprised many when he announced he was leaving in February.
"Rob has made a major contribution to the council and the Yarra Ranges community," Cr Heenan said.
"He leaves the shire in a very strong position, having played a key role in significantly reducing the shire's debt and delivering on record funding for important community services and infrastructure.
