A new door has opened for a former executive director for Victoria’s dumped Commonwealth Games plan, who will join the City of Greater Bendigo.
Rachel Lee, who was appointed Executive Director for Regional Integration & Bendigo Delivery for the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games earlier this year, has been named as the City’s new Director Strategy and Growth, replacing Steve Hamilton who has taken up a role with the state government.
Ms Lee has also held the roles of Executive Director of the Rochester Recovery Taskforce at Emergency Recovery Victoria, and as Regional Director at Regional Development Victoria.
She’s previously worked at the City with roles in tourism, economic development and major projects.
Chief Executive Officer Craig Niemann said Ms Lee’s leadership style, engagement skills and experience collaborating with a range of stakeholders to deliver complex strategies and projects made her a strong candidate.
“Rachel has built a diverse career across industry, local and state government, and brings a wealth of experience managing large and small-scale projects in complex environments,” Mr Niemann said.
“She will bring strong partnerships with stakeholders, having experience in and collaborating with the various state government departments that we regularly do business with and whose support we need to deliver for our community.”
Ms Lee said as a local, she was excited by the opportunity to return to local government.
“I look forward to leading a high-performing team and supporting staff across portfolios like Bendigo Art Gallery, The Capital and Ulumbarra theatres, major events and tourism, the economy and planning,” she said.
Ms Lee will starts her new job on November 6.
New appointment at Bellingen
Meanwhile, Bellingen Shire Council has appointed a new Deputy General Manager – Corporate & Community.
Todd Williams, who has previously been acting in the role, will lead the team responsible for overseeing finance, community partnerships, corporate services, and sustainable environment.
Mr Williams has served in various roles with local councils throughout Sydney, joining Bellingen Shire in June 2019 as Executive Manager Organisational Strategy and Communications.
General Manager Mark Griffioen said Mr Williams had played an integral role in nurturing a culture of collaboration, openness, and honesty among staff while acting in the role for the last nine months.
“Todd will continue to add significant value in helping to shape our strategic plans and policies,” Mr Griffioen said.
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