Monday, December 15, 2025

Frankston City Council appoints first female CEO

Frankston City Council has announced the appointment of Tennille Bradley as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Ms Bradley (pictured) will join Frankston City in mid-January 2026 from the City of Greater Geelong, where she has been a key member of the executive leadership team, helping guide one of Victoria’s fastest-growing and most economically diverse municipalities.

In a statement, Frankston City Council said she brings extensive experience in major-project delivery, organisational transformation, economic development and community-centred local government leadership.

Her appointment marks a historic milestone for Frankston City, becoming the first female Chief Executive Officer in Council’s history.

Mayor, Kris Bolam said the appointment represents an exciting new chapter for the city.

“Frankston City is changing, and changing fast. We are delivering major infrastructure, welcoming unprecedented public and private investment, strengthening our partnerships across government and industry, and shaping the next chapter in Frankston City’s growth as a key metropolitan city,” said the Mayor.

“We are thrilled to welcome Frankston City Council’s first female CEO. With three of our five executive leaders already women, this appointment continues our commitment to diversity and equity across the city council.

“Tennille brings exceptional credentials, proven executive leadership, and a deep passion for delivering community-led outcomes. She understands growing cities, the importance of strategic advocacy, and how to lead high-performing teams through opportunity and change,” said Mayor Bolam.

Ms Bradley said she is honoured to join the Frankston City community at such a pivotal stage in the city’s growth.

“Frankston is a city on the rise. You can feel the momentum and ambition here, from the waterfront to the hospital precinct, the metropolitan activity centre and the new investment landing across its suburbs,” she said.

“I’m excited to work closely with the Mayor, Councillors, staff, partners and the community to build on this momentum and ensure Frankston City grows in a way that is sustainable, inclusive and true to the city’s identity and strengths.

“Frankston City has long been compared to Geelong, and now it’s Frankston’s time to shine. I am thrilled to join a city with such potential and pride, and to lead an organisation with strong capability and heart.”

As part of her time in Geelong, Ms Bradley worked alongside the Victorian Government and supported significant government investment in Geelong through City Deal projects, including the $449 million Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, and Revitalising Central Geelong projects, including The Green Spine, Laneways Projects and activation of the Arts & Cultural Precinct.

City of Greater Geelong Mayor, Stretch Kontelj OAM said Ms Bradley’s leadership would be missed, but her appointment was a significant gain for Frankston.

“Tennille has played a significant role in driving positive change and major city- shaping initiatives here in Geelong. While it’s a loss for us, we couldn’t be happier to see her bring her talent and passion to Frankston.”

Mayor Bolam also today acknowledged Cam Arullanantham, who has served as Interim CEO since July following the departure of former CEO Phil Cantillon, praising his leadership and steady guidance throughout the transition period.

“Cam has provided steady hands, calm leadership and unwavering commitment to our community and staff during this period of change.”

“Cam has been outstanding leader and I absolutely encourage him to seek future leadership opportunities given the enormity of what he has been able to achieve in such a small amount of time as the Interim CEO,” the Mayor said.

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