After more than six years as CEO of the City of Melbourne, Dr Kathy Alexander has resigned from the role to pursue new opportunities and spend more time with her family.
Dr Alexander yesterday informed Lord Mayor Robert Doyle of her decision and said the time felt right to move on.
In announcing her decision, she recognised the important role that local government plays in shaping and responding to the economic, social and environmental challenges facing cities globally.
“Without a doubt Melbourne is one of the best places in the world to live, work and visit,” she said. “And a good part of that is a result of City Of Melbourne’s focus on the public realm and the environmental solutions we have put in place. We are sending a strong message to federal and state governments that Australia’s capital cities can help solve some of our biggest national problems.
“I have always felt privileged to work at the City Of Melbourne with such an innovative group of staff and three very committed elected councils.
“After more than six years on the job, and with the organisation’s financial position strong, I believe now is the time to pass the baton. It is also a good time for me to take a new direction in my life and career, pursue opportunities as a non-executive director and, importantly, spend more time with my family,” Dr Alexander said.
Lord Mayor Robert Doyle expressed regret at Dr Alexander’s announcement but said he completely understood and fully supported the reasons for her decision.
“Kathy Alexander has been an outstanding leader at the City of Melbourne and should feel proud of the contribution she has made to the world’s most liveable city.
“On a personal note, I will miss Kathy’s passion, good humour and even the occasional argument!
“She’s an exemplary leader and a strong role model for young women aspiring to CEO positions,” he said.
Melbourne is Australia’s fastest growing city and the City of Melbourne employs more than 1,300 staff, 25 businesses and has an annual budget of $374 million in services and $100 million in capital works.
Since joining the City of Melbourne in 2008, Dr Alexander has led several major capital works projects, including the Swanston Street redevelopment and the construction of major community infrastructure, including Boyd in Southbank, Carlton Community Centre and the new Docklands Library. She has been instrumental in driving what will be Council’s largest investment in its history, the renewal of the Queen Victoria Market.
She has led the introduction of a major productivity program based on Toyota’s Lean Thinking management system – a first for local government in Australia – as well as embedding a culture of community engagement across the organisation.
Dr Alexander will remain in the role of CEO until 3 December 2014 while the organisation undertakes a recruitment program. The date marks Dr Alexander’s 60th birthday, a milestone which she believes is a fitting time to move on from managing the world’s most liveable city.
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