New CEO Appointed

Mr Parker has been the CEO of the Shire of Harvey for the past 15 years and was previously the CEO at the Shire of Wagin.

Mayor Barry Sammels said “The search for a suitable candidate has been a long and involved one, with many steps to be taken.  But Council is very confident we have found the ideal person for this very important role.”

At the first ordinary general meeting following outgoing CEO Andrew Hammond’s resignation on 20 November 2017 the City appointed a CEO Recruitment Committee comprising Mayor Barry Sammels, Deputy Mayor Deb Hamblin, and Councillors Chris Elliot and Joy Stewart.   

Lester Blades Executive Search was engaged to assist with the search for a suitable candidate.  A total of 67 applications were received from around Australia. 

Six candidates were interviewed by the CEO Recruitment Committee. At a special meeting on 19 April Council resolved to authorise Mayor Sammels to commence negotiations with the preferred candidate regarding the contractual details and remuneration package. 

Mayor Sammels said “The CEO’s role is absolutely vital to the implementation of Council’s vision for the City of Rockingham.  We are delighted to have found a candidate of Michael’s calibre who has the experience and the enthusiasm to fill the requirements of this role. We are looking forward to his contribution to the City over coming years.”

“Michael is a Fellow of Local Government Professionals Australia, and previous Board Member and State President of Local Government Managers Australia.  He has been part of many representative boards and management committees including an ex-officio role on the WA Local Government Association State Council.  He was also the recipient of the 2012 LGMA Medal and the 2016 WALGA Distinguished Officer Award.”

Mr Parker has been given a five-year contract and will start work at the City of Rockingham on 6 August 2018.