Macedon Ranges Shire Council will transition to a four-directorate structure in early 2022, separating corporate and community services back into stand-alone directorates.
The surprise move reverts back to the council’s original four-tier structure, which was reduced to three directorates under former council CEO Margot Stork in 2020.
New CEO Bernie O’Sullivan said the changes would ensure council’s functions were aligned to achieve the best possible community outcomes and that staff were set up for success in their roles.
“One of my first priorities since joining council in May was to really understand what’s working well, what gaps are present and what opportunities lie ahead,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“Together with the executive team, we’ve completed an organisational review that responds to gaps and opportunities identified from last year’s organisational changes, and acknowledges feedback received from staff, councillors and the community.
“An internal consultation process indicated strong support for establishment of the four-directorate model, and having dedicated Community and Corporate directorates to complement our existing Assets and Operations and Planning and Environment directorates,” he said.
Mr O’Sullivan said the changes also aligned with council’s new strategic direction following the adoption of several important plans and strategies including the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan and Disability Action Plan; and the requirements of the new Local Government Act 2020.
“In addition to the new Act, there have been key changes in other areas of government policy and direction such as social and affordable housing, which we need to acknowledge and plan for,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“The continuing pandemic and June storm have also highlighted the benefit of moving to a community focused directorate.”
Following the loss of several experienced emergency management staff under the former restructure, Mr O’Sullivan said the executive team had also worked to identify improvements that could be made to council’s capability in emergency management.
