GENERAL manager Steve McDonald has bid Muswellbrook Shire Council farewell.
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But, he’s not venturing too far away.
Mr McDonald will step into a similar role at the neighbouring Upper Hunter Shire Council, following the resignation of Waid Crockett in December.
“We are delighted to announce that after two rounds of interviews and the very competitive evaluation of some outstanding candidates, council has appointed Steve McDonald on a five-year contract as our general manager,” mayor Wayne Bedggood said.
“Steve has had more than 32 years’ Local Government experience and is currently the GM at Muswellbrook [Shire Council].
“He brings with him a wealth of regional and Local Government knowledge and he has an excellent grasp on the priorities of the communities within our region.
“He’s held the position of general manager at Muswellbrook for over 12 years and we are extremely fortunate to attract a new GM with his extensive experience.
“Prior to taking on the role as GM at Muswellbrook Shire Council, Steve held the position of director of corporate and community for five years.
“He also has a background in finance and held a position in this area with North Sydney Council for a number of years.”
Muswellbrook Shire mayor Martin Rush said council’s organisation had changed dramatically over the past decade – particularly in terms of its finances.
“Steve has been crucial in driving that change and, although we are very sad to see him go, we know that he will bring increased capacity for resource sharing between our two councils,” he said.
“We wouldn’t have wanted to lose him to anyone else.
“The relationship Muswellbrook Shire Council has with Upper Hunter Shire Council is strong and this will cement that relationship even further.
“You couldn’t ask for a more honest and humble general manager.
“He has had a genuine care for the welfare of each member of staff.
“We wish him all the best in his new role.”
Mr McDonald, himself, admitted he was excited about joining the organisation and being further involved in the Upper Hunter community.
“I look forward to building on the past successes enjoyed by the close working relationship between Upper Hunter and Muswellbrook shire councils,” he said.
“While I am saddened to be leaving Muswellbrook Shire Council and its great people after so many years, I am excited by the new challenges ahead, including the opportunity to strengthen even further the work between the two councils for the communities of both our shires through my new role.
“As the new general manager of Upper Hunter Shire Council, I look forward to working with council staff and councillors and the broader community in the years ahead.”
While Mr McDonald currently resides in Muswellbrook, he plans to re-locate his family to the Upper Hunter Shire.
“Steve has a long-standing association with the Upper Hunter community through his children’s schooling and sporting activities and is excited about the prospect of joining our community,” Cr Bedggood said.
“I am sure the residents of Upper Hunter Shire and the employees of the council will offer their support to Steve and welcome him to our shire when he starts.”
Mr McDonald will take up the role on March 19.
Muswellbrook Shire Council’s director of planning, corporate and community services Fiona Plesman, who came to council as a senior manager at the City of Penrith, will act as general manager while council works towards the appointment of a new GM.