Stirling to his bones

Deputy mayor Stephanie Proud JP, incoming CEO Stevan Rodic and mayor Mark Irwin.

The City of Stirling has proudly announced that Stevan Rodic has been selected as the next chief executive officer of the City of Stirling.

Mayor Mark Irwin described the incoming CEO as ‘Stirling to his bones’ in an email to all employees announcing the appointment earlier this month.

With more than 25 years of local government experience, Mr Rodic started his career at the City of Stirling as part of the planning team on the city’s front counter working directly with residents and businesses. Mr Rodic has a strong connection to the local community, and is dedicated to excellence in customer service under his personal and professional mantra ‘do better’.

Mr Rodic was employed by the City of Stirling from 1997-2007, and then served in other leadership roles in the local government sector for more than a decade. He then returned to the City of Stirling as manager of development services in June 2019.

By December 2019, his ability to positively influence organisational culture, understand and respond to community needs, and deliver on their aspirations led to his appointment as director of planning and development. Mr Rodic has served effectively in that role for almost four years through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw the city provide millions in support for community services and small businesses.

Mayor Mark Irwin said council was blown away by Mr Rodic’s deep understanding of the City of Stirling, not just the local community but the organisation itself.

“In addition to being highly experienced across a broad range of planning and development services and functions, Mr Rodic has genuine concern for the community he serves and the employees in his care. He presented clear plans for the future of the City of Stirling, and showed an ability to deliver on the aspirations of our community,” he said.

“He has demonstrated innovative thinking and problem solving at the level required in leading Western Australia’s largest local government. Council is confident he will build upon the city’s highest standards and award-winning performance.”

Incoming CEO Stevan Rodic said he was both humbled and incredibly excited to take on the role of leading Western Australia’s largest local government.

“I am honoured by the trust council has shown in my abilities to lead our city into a new era of prosperity and sustained success and I look forward to working alongside our employees, stakeholders and community,” he said.

“I love the City of Stirling and what it represents. I have worked for this organisation for most of my career and the opportunity to lead the city is an absolute privilege.

“People are the key to a successful organisation and I am focussed on further developing a culture where we strive for excellence in everything we do here at the city.

“Together, with our community and council, we will build on our strong foundation, continue to lead the sector and deliver on our vision to be a sustainable city with a local focus.”

Following council endorsement at a recent meeting, the handover period between the current CEO and the new CEO will begin to ensure a smooth transition for employees and the community. Mr Rodic will formally commence on 3 January 2024.