Unanimous Support for CEO Contract Extension

Published on 31 August 2022

Rural City of Wangaratta is pleased to announce that current CEO Brendan McGrath will lead the organisation for a further five years, with his contract formally extended during the Council Meeting of 30 August 2022.

Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor, Cr Dean Rees, announced that Councillors had unanimously supported the reappointment of Mr McGrath, stating that the contract renewal will provide stability in leadership for the municipality, and will enable the continued focus of Council on the delivery of community outcomes and other exciting projects currently underway.

“Brendan has proved himself an exceptional leader and as a Council, we are pleased to be able to secure his services as CEO until February 2028. His guidance has seen the organisation flourish, and we are lucky to have him.” Mayor Rees said.

"Since commencing in 2014, Brendan has steered the organisation toward financial stability and has been invaluable in ensuring agility in adapting to the impacts of events such as the 2019 bushfires, and the COVID-19 Pandemic. Despite these challenges, the organisation has gone from strength to strength.” Mayor Rees added.

Mr McGrath’s major achievements to date include overseeing the transition from YMCA to Council management of the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatics Centre, the establishment of Wangaratta’s Organics Processing Facility, the development of the Glenrowan Heritage Site, which is currently under construction, the formation of a stand-alone company and board of directors for the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange, as well as significant CBD and Railway Precinct upgrades.

“Brendan is highly regarded for his ability to foster strong and meaningful relationships across our community, and with stakeholders at all levels of government. – He has recently been appointed to the GOTAFE Board and has formerly been President and Board Member of Local Government Professionals Victoria, and Board Member of Procurement Australia.’’ Mayor Rees continued.

“Brendan is to be commended for his strategic direction that will stimulate economic activity and build a healthy and connected community. He continues to advocate to attract the financial support needed to get current and future projects off the ground, including funding that will position Wangaratta as a premier regional sporting and events precinct.

“Council looks forward to seeing the positive outcomes of Brendan’s leadership over the next five years as we work together to deliver objectives for our community driven Council Plan 2021-25 and Community Vision".

Mr McGrath said that he is thrilled to continue to serve Rural City of Wangaratta as Chief Executive Officer and lead a highly capable and passionate organisation.

“It is a privilege and honour to work alongside a Council that is committed to making the Rural City of Wangaratta the best it can be. I am extremely proud of the accomplishments delivered by the organisation, and to have the opportunity lead such a committed and talented group of people. We have achieved some amazing outcomes for residents and visitors. I thank the Councillors for their ongoing support and dedication to our community, and I look forward to continuing to lead our organisation in delivering for our community and putting their experience first over the coming five years,” said Mr McGrath.