New manager to oversee Shire's governance

Published on 05 April 2024

Chris Asenjo is Corangamite Shire’s new Manager Governance and Civic Support.

CEO David Rae said Mr Asenjo joined Council after a 24-year career with Victoria Police.

“He was formerly Detective Senior Sergeant – Crime Manager for the South-West Region and was highly respected in that profession.

“A confident, natural communicator and presenter Chris is experienced in integrity management, leading/managing teams and project management.

“He is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts with Professional Honours in Public Sector Leadership & Management with the University of Tasmania”

“I’m pleased to welcome Chris to our team.”

Mr Asenjo has been in the South-West for 15 years after making a sea change.

“My wife has ties to this part of the world,” he said.

“We came from Melbourne and since then had another couple of children. We’ve planted our roots firmly in the South-West.”

The couple have four children, aged 8, 11, 14 and 15.

“I think the time was right for me to look into a change of career and change of lifestyle.

“Policing is a very rewarding career. It can also take its toll at times and I felt the time was right to do something different and face new challenges.

“Local Government is attractive to me because I believe I’ve got a skill set that can succeed and I still get to be involved in community service. That’s something I’ve been passionate about for decades now.”

Mr Asenjo said he has been managing teams for many years and has been part of strategic leadership groups.

“I bring the skills and attributes from those roles as well as a point of difference from what many other council officers might have.

“I think that point of difference will make me valuable to local government.

“Governance and integrity are very important parts of serving the community.

“Governance is the end point for delivering on activities, business needs and services.

“Without proper governance behind them, these things might struggle.”

Mr Asenjo said he was looking forward to leaping into a completely new industry and the nuances that come with it.

“The people at Corangamite Shire have made me very welcome which will help me ease into this new career.”