At last week’s council meeting, more than half the City of Greater Bendigo directors were temporarily occupying their roles. 

Three of five directors chairs were filled by acting directors, while the occupant of the director of organisation support’s chair – Kerryn Ellis – was only given her permanent role late last year. 

City chief executive officer Craig Niemann said the staff departures had caused an internal review.

“The city has enjoyed an extended period of stability for the past 10 years at a director level,” Mr Niemann said. 

“Given the recent changes in the leadership team, I am reviewing the organisation structure to ensure it can continue to best meet the needs of our community into the future.” 

The vacancies were created by the departure of former city futures director Stan Liacos last December and former community wellbeing director Pauline Gordon last month.

Planning and development director Prue Mansfield this week resumed her role after a period of absence on leave. 

Ms Ellis was appointed to her role as organisation support director in October last year. Among other responsibilities, it involves coordinating the budget process and rates valuations.

The position had been temporarily occupied since the departure of Marg Allan last July. Ms Allan resigned as organisation support director after 14 years with the City of Greater Bendigo.

Mr Liacos had been in the city’s employ since 2006, Ms Gordon since 2011. 

Mr Niemann said he hoped to establish a full, permanent leadership team within the next few months.

The city lost another senior staff member this month with the departure of its principal communications advisor, Tom Laurie. 

The city CEO said staff members who had recently left the city’s employ had done so to advance their careers.

“Their resignations follow long periods of service to the organisation,” he said. 

“It is natural for people to look for new opportunities, especially after long periods of time with one organisation.

“Following consideration of the future structure for the organisation, a recruitment process will occur.”