A new general manager has been announced for Lismore City Council – the fourth person in that role in less than two years.
Controversial General Manager Shelley Oldham was sacked in February 2021. Oldham was replaced by interim General Manager Michael Donnelly and he was replaced by interim General Manager John Walker in February this year.
Council announced today that Jon Gibbons has been appointed as Lismore City Council General Manager, for a five-year term effective from 9 February.
Cr Krieg said Mr Gibbons was the stand-out candidate during a rigorous recruitment process and the unanimous choice of councillors.
‘Mr Gibbons has a long history in local government and is currently Executive Business Performance and Governance at Gold Coast City Council.
‘He previously served four years as the Chief Executive of Scenic Rim Council, as well as Chief Executive at Norfolk Island and Carpentaria councils.’
Jon Gibbons was appointed to the role of CEO at Scenic Rim in March 2018 but was voted out of office (4 to 3) by councillors after a five-hour of debate behind closed doors in November 2021. His employment at the Scenic Rim ended in August this year.
Mr Gibbons’ next position was as Executive – Business Performance and Governance at the City of Gold Coast, a position which he has held since October this year.
Mr Gibbons said he was looking forward to taking up his new role.
‘I look forward to the opportunity to build a strong partnership with the mayor and councillors, the employees and members of the Lismore community in the delivery of our services.’
Mayor Krieg said councillors were impressed with Mr Gibbons’ depth of experience and look forward to working with him.
‘This has been a very tough year for our community and Council,’ said Cr Krieg.
‘I would like to thank and acknowledge our outgoing [interim] General Manager who in 12 short months dealt with the aftermath of the most devasting natural disaster to hit our community, stabilised Council and set us on the course for financial sustainability.
‘I remain committed to rebuilding Lismore and look forward to working with Mr Gibbons to continue the work to build back better.’
Mr Gibbons holds an MBA and qualifications in Urban and Regional Planning, Environmental Health, Local Government management and Project Management.
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