CEO Announces Resignation to Take Top Job at DPI

Mr Lumsden’s appointment to the DPI’s top job was yesterday approved by the WA Governor and he is expected to start his new role in November. Until that time, he will continue to serve as the City’s CEO.

Mayor Katherine Jackson said, on behalf of the City, she would like to congratulate Mr Lumsden on his high-level appointment. “It is deserved recognition of the professionalism and expertise of Mr Lumsden who has achieved a great deal at the City of Melville since his appointment as CEO in April 2006,” she said. “Over the past 17 months, Mr Lumsden has introduced the City to the benefits of taking a strategic view of our operations, with an eye on ensuring the City’s sustainability and improving the future for our residents and ratepayers.”

Mayor Jackson said Mr Lumsden initiated the development of the City’s first long-term Community Plan to give the community a greater say over the future directions of our City; recognised the need to place greater emphasis on asset management and maintenance; and had been instrumental in the development of a long-term financial plan for the City that is expected to be adopted by the end of the year.

“He has introduced strong governance practices to the City, revamping our meeting and committee system with the creation of Agenda Forums and Elected Member Portfolios to create a more strategic, streamlined and open decision-making process,” Mayor Jackson said. “Additionally, he has improved working relationships with Elected Members and staff, making sure we have a clear focus on what needs to be done to allow our City to grow and remain one of the most forward-thinking local governments in WA.”

Mr Lumsden has worked in local government for 35 years, 30 of which have been as a Director or CEO. In his new role at the DPI, Mr Lumsden will continue to work closely with local government, including the City of Melville, as he will be required to take a whole-of-government approach to the position of Director-General.

Mayor Jackson said the City was disappointed at losing such a quality Chief Executive Officer as Mr Lumsden but was glad to be gaining such an important contact at the DPI. “While Mr Lumsden will no longer be at the Council, he will still assist us in providing solutions for strategic planning and traffic issues affecting our City,” she said.