Greater Bendigo City Council has re-appointed CEO, Craig Niemann, for a one-year term.
Mr Niemann’s current contract was due to end in December this year and it was mutually agreed by Council and Mr Niemann that he would serve an additional 12 months.
After this time, Mr Niemann (pictured) will depart the City of Greater Bendigo after 16 years as CEO and two years as a Director prior to that.
Mayor, Andrea Metcalf said Mr Niemann’s re-appointment reflected his excellent leadership and Council’s desire to see him remain with the organisation as staff prepare to move to Galkangu – Bendigo GovHub.
“Craig is a highly regarded CEO in Local Government with an outstanding reputation and excellent relationships at the State and Federal level,” the Mayor said.
“We face a critical time with an upcoming State election and the move to Galkangu – Bendigo GovHub, so certainty and continuity at the CEO level is important over the coming 18 months.
“The Galkangu – Bendigo GovHub project has been a long-term goal for the organisation and public sector in our community, so it is fitting that he guide staff and Council through this period of change for the business and oversee people settling into the new building.”
Mayor Metcalf said Council would advertise the CEO role in mid-2023, to allow for a thorough search and transition in late 2023, early 2024.
“Craig is to be commended for his strategic, measured and thoughtful approach as CEO, driven by a desire to get the best outcomes for the community. The Greater Bendigo Local Government brand is strong because of his exceptional leadership and Council looks forward to continuing to work with Craig while planning for the organisation’s ongoing success,” she said.
When Mr Niemann departs in December 2023, he will have served a distinguished 40 years in Local Government, having previously worked at the Borough of Eaglehawk and Shire of East Loddon (prior to Council amalgamations), and then the Shire of Loddon.
“It has been a great honour to lead the City of Greater Bendigo. We are on the cusp of an exciting transition for our organisation and I am grateful that I will be able to see this significant project through,” Mr Niemann said.
“I strongly believe it will take our organisation to another level regarding performance, collaboration and efficiency, and allow us to deliver greater outcomes for our community.”
