New Shire of Augusta-Margaret River chief expected to take reins by July

Hopes abound the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River will have a new chief executive by the start of the new financial year.

In an update on the recruitment process sparked by December’s resignation of CEO Stephanie Addison-Brown, who has since taken a manager’s job with the City of Busselton, a Shire spokesperson said five candidates were facing interviews after being shortlisted.

A whopping 143 applications were lodged for one of the most sought-after jobs in local government.

Interviews started this week with the selection panel that includes Shire president Julia Meldrum, deputy president Paula Cristoffanini and Cr Ian Earl.

“Their aim is to identify the candidate that is the best fit for our community – someone who is passionate, dedicated and understands the challenges facing our region,” the spokesperson said.

“We hope to have our new CEO on board sometime in June or July.

“We’ll keep you updated.”

The total salary package was last confirmed as about $340,000 per year.