REDLAND City has a new chief executive – Andrew Chesterman – a former Newman government senior public servant.
Mr Chesterman worked most recently for the Brisbane City Council and was an environment department director-general.
In 2013 then premier Campbell Newman made him Public Service Commissioner. He was let go by the Palaszczuk government in 2015.
Mr Chesterman will replace former chief executive Bill Lyon who announced that he would step down in October.
Mr Chesterman will start work at council in mid-April.
Mayor Karen Williams announced the appointment in a message to staff this afternoon.
She said Mr Chesterman brought a wealth of management experience in state and local government, most recently as a senior executive and program manager at BCC’s natural environment, water and sustainability portfolio.
“There, he led the sustainability agenda of Australia’s largest council and earned a reputation as a motivating manager and an innovator who walked the talk,’’ her message to staff said.
Cr Williams said Mr Chesterman was selected from more than 100 candidates after a national recruitment process.
“(He) has a track record of innovation and delivering to a high standard, making him a good fit for our organisation,’’ she said.
“...The candidates were shortlisted by an agency and six were interviewed by a panel which included independent advisors, with the top two interviewed by all councillors.
“I also would like to express my gratitude to Bill Lyon, who has agreed to extend his tenure until Andrew arrives to guarantee a seamless transition for the organisation. That he has agreed to do this speaks volumes of his service to our city.’’
Mr Lyon was appointed to the role after the 2012 election. He was a former Energex executive.
Cr Williams said Mr Lyon would leave a fine legacy.
“The results of the past four years speak for themselves. Our financial position is enviable and, under Bill’s guidance, we have cut debt and essentially kept the books balanced while maintaining a high level of service,’’ she said.
Cr Williams told staff that with council in such a strong position, she did not anticipate major changes.
She said Mr Chesterman had extensive experience in environmental management, project delivery, asset management and collaboration with all levels of government, something that would be of great benefit to Redlands.
Mr Chesterman worked for the BCC when Mr Newman was mayor, following him into state government.
