Organisation restructure finalised

A new organisational structure for East Gippsland Shire Council was formally released today (Monday, May 20) by Chief Executive Officer Anthony Basford.

The changes primarily involve reducing the executive team from four to three positions, and a realignment of departments and senior manager roles. It is scheduled to take effect from July 1, 2019.

Following the announcement of the proposed organisation changes to staff on 11 April, Mr Basford said he had received over 50 submissions from staff, and had many face-to-face meetings with staff and teams about the changes.

“It has been great to see so many people engage in process, which demonstrates the calibre of people in our organisation,” he said.

Mr Basford said there was consensus on a proposal to reduce the four existing directorates to three groups – Business Excellence, Place and Community and Assets and Environment – each with a general manager.

“The new structure has not had a focus on redundancies. There will be changes to some roles, there may be staff who choose to leave the organisation, and some positions will be advertised.

“Where we have people requiring redeployment that we work with them to secure a new position that fits their qualifications, skills and experience.”

Mr Basford said the changes will assist in creating an organisation that is responsive, agile and better able to deliver on Council’s commitments, shifting external influences and the community’s evolving expectations.

“Council has many commitments to deliver on and our community is demanding we do better in a number of areas,” Mr Basford said.

Mayor Cr Natalie O’Connell said the new organisation structure reflects Council’s focus for a greater emphasis on community engagement, planning and development and improved customer service.

“The changes are also designed to make the delivery of our large capital works program more efficient, and maximise the potential of our commercial enterprises - marinas, the saleyards, caravan parks, the Forge Theatre and recreational centres.”

Cr O’Connell said the CEO, during his review of the organisation and in developing the new structure, had kept councillors well briefed.

Mr Basford said Council has a skilled and committed team delivering the best outcomes for the community.

“I appreciate that this process may have been unsettling for some staff, but I am confident it will deliver greater long-term benefits for the East Gippsland community,” he said.