New Chief Officer Assets and Services brings wealth of engineering experience to leadership team

An active member of Engineers Australia, Alex Manners is bringing a wealth of knowledge and technical skills to Council’s leadership team as the new Chief Officer Assets and Services commencing Monday 30 August.

The assets and services portfolio includes asset management; design; sewer and water; waste; facilities and fleet; parks and town spaces; roads and major projects management.

“With 12 years of experience in Local Government infrastructure I will bring a broad range of experience and technical expertise to Armidale Regional Council,” said Mr Manners

“With a history in staff management and growth in both operational to technical areas, I have a strong focus on staff wellbeing and development that will help the council continue on a path of sustainable growth and prosperity.”

Mr Manners joined Tamworth Regional Council shortly after its creation from amalgamation in 2006 and he carries many lessons learnt as part of the growth and change experienced in Tamworth which he hopes to share with Armidale Regional Council.

“Armidale Regional Council has undergone significant change over the last few years and I see there is great potential as it continues to create a new identity both internally and to the community it serves,” said Mr Manners

“There has been a great challenge thrown to the organisation to remain sustainable and stable as it grows into its new identity. As it does grow, I see the opportunity for Armidale Regional Council to become a strong example of how a regional council should perform.”

Mr Manners has been a member of Engineers Australia for several years and a representative on the Northern Group Committee and chair for four years. The Northern Group spans the area from Werris Creek to Armidale and west to Burren Junction. The membership base in the area is approximately 180 engineers of various disciplines and expertise. In 2019 Mr Manners was recognised for his active role in the group as part of the ‘100 Engineers Making a Difference’ campaign.

Alex is an avid long distance runner and attributes his running to assisting him to keep a level head.

“I have undertaken some pretty big challenges including local running festivals, half marathons and trail runs,” said Alex

“One of the most challenging events included the Tamworth Trailblazer – 1.9km of elevation gain over 30km but I look forward to running the hills around Armidale. My family, including my two children and my wife who is a Primary school teacher are excited about our new adventure.”

Published on 25 Aug 2021