City of Bayswater appoints City of Bunbury boss as new CEO

CITY of Bunbury’s chief executive will make a tree change this year, when he takes up a role as the City of Bayswater’s top officer.

Andrew Brien today confirmed his resignation, after being appointed by Bayswater councillors at a meeting last night.

He has been granted a $319,625 package and a five-year contract over 40 other applicants.

The council parted ways with former chief executive Francesca Lefante last September, with finance and corporate services director Carissa Bywater acting as chief executive since.

Mr Brien has been Bunbury’s chief executive for six years and has more than 25 years’ experience in local government in WA and Queensland.

Mayor Barry McKenna said council was excited by the appointment.

“Andrew has an established track record in change management, efficiency and process improvements, local government reform, and successfully leading complex organisations that perform at a high level,” he said.

“We believe we have found someone for the future; a CEO who will guide the administration in a way that will significantly enhance our service delivery and organisational performance.”

Cr McKenna acknowledged the “great” job Ms Bywater had done in the interim.

Mr Brien is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and a member of Local Government Managers Australia and the Institute of Public Administration Australia.

In January six councillors formed a selection panel and worked with Beilby Consulting to help select candidates.

Council announced Mr Brien’s appointment following discussions about his contract behind closed doors last night; Cr Brent Fleeton voted against the appointment.

Mr Brien will start no later than July 1.