Mornington Peninsula Shire CEO John Baker is set to leave the organisation to take up the position of Chief Executive Officer at Sunshine Coast Council in Queensland.
John joined the Shire in November 2018 and has led the organisation through a range of challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic lock downs and a number of storm events that significantly impacted the municipality.
He said he would oversee the swearing in of the new Mornington Peninsula Shire Council on 19 November and finish up in early December.
“I have so many cherished moments leading the Shire over the past six years,” he said.
“We’ve weathered some of the most challenging times, none more difficult than the COVID-19 lockdowns, and especially the intense four-month stretch in 2020. I was deeply moved by how we coped, and I am endlessly proud of how we pulled together to ensure we continued serving our community with dedication and heart.
“I am also particularly proud of the way our organisation worked with community and our emergency services colleagues to support the 2020 Black Saturday Mallacoota evacuation exercise, and more recently our community-focused response to what seems like ever increasing major weather events.
“The establishment of our standing Citizens’ Panel, the completion of the YAWA Aquatic Centre, and our improvements in delivering greater customer service all point to our ongoing commitment to enhancing the lives of the community. Our new financial management approaches have ensured the Shire remains not only cost-effective but one of the best managed in the state – achieving the eighth lowest rates charges in Victoria.
“But for me, the greatest accomplishment is our organisational culture. Leading this great team of talented and committed people has been one of the proudest achievements of my career.
“I’m looking forward to continuing my journey in the local government sector with this new challenge. I will miss the people who make Mornington Peninsula Shire what it is. I’m leaving with mixed emotions but also a great sense of pride for all that we have achieved together.”
