Alison Leighton has been appointed CEO at Melbourne City Council.

Ms Leighton has been acting in the position since last October, amid the resignation of Justin Hanney during an internal investigation into an undeclared donation.

The investigation did not identify any decisions that were influenced by the donation, but found it should have been declared.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp said Ms Leighton has already had a significant impact across the organisation, including implementing the Council Plan, sharpening the focus on customer service, and improving transparency and accountability.

“Since she stepped into the role of Acting CEO in October, Alison has been a diligent, fair and passionate leader for the organisation and wider community,” Cr Capp said.

“As well as a deep understanding of local government, Alison brings to the role stability, confidence and a proven record of delivery.”

Ms Leighton, a qualified engineer, was CEO at Baw Baw Shire and COO at Mornington Peninsula before joing the City of Melbourne in April 2020 as General Manager.

She was promoted to Deputy CEO six months later, leading the portfolios of Strategy and Planning, Property, Infrastructure and Design, People, Culture and Leadership, and Aboriginal Melbourne.

Ms Leighton is contracted to serve as CEO until July 2027.

She said she felt privileged to have the opportunity to lead the City of Melbourne and build on its culture and performance.

“As Australia’s largest city, I look forward to supporting Council to deliver on what matters most to our growing community, embracing the future with confidence – and positioning Melbourne as a prosperous, liveable and attractive global city,” she said.

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