The appointment was confirmed yesterday, and Mr Stone will start his new role in Deniliquin on August 17.
At Snowy Valleys Council Mr Stone was interim director of strategy community and development.
His other past roles have included director of assets and operations at Macedon Ranges Shire Council, project manager of the Rural Placemaking Program at Rural City of Wangaratta, general manager and city development at Latrobe City Council, director of development services at South Gippsland Shire Council and director of planning and information at Baw Baw Shire Council.
Mr Stone also has impressive academic qualifications as a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and with a Graduate Diploma in Management (Entrepreneurship and Innovation) from Swinburne University and an Advanced Diploma Business Management from the University of Ballarat. He has been employed on a five year performance-based contract, and will enter into a performance agreement within three months of starting in the role.
Mr Stone said he and his family are keen to make the Edward River region their home.
‘‘I am thrilled and honoured by the opportunity council has given me to lead the organisation into the future, and to continue to build on the great work that I can see has already been achieved over recent years,’’ he said.
‘‘This is an exciting time for Edward River with so many opportunities outlined in the Community Strategic Plan. I have been energised about the projects ahead and the obvious enthusiasm of the mayor and councillors to bring those projects to life.
‘‘Maria and I are looking forward to becoming part of a new community. We love country life, so we feel a real sense of excitement and anticipation to be part of this beautiful region.
‘‘One of my first tasks will be to get out and about and meet as many community members and business owners as I can. I want to hear what their council can improve, and they can be assured I am a good listener and will act upon my findings to build a better Edward River region.’’
Mayor Norm Brennan said the GM recruitment process was both competitive and rigorous.
There were 38 candidates competing for the role, coming from Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales, Queensland, and New Zealand.
‘‘Phil has a very strong local government, executive level background having held some significant positions across a number of councils in Victoria and New South Wales. He has an impressive diversity of skills including IT, place management, planning, and assets and operations.
‘‘The interview panel was most impressed with his strategic focus and his ideas for the future of Edward River.
‘‘With his appointment being unanimous amongst my fellow councillors, Phil knows that he will receive support and encouragement in helping us advance in serving our wonderful community.’’
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