THE man poised to take the reins at Katherine Town Council says he is chomping at the bit to help develop the full potential of the town.
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The council announced on Monday that Robert Jennings had been appointed to the role of chief executive officer after an exhaustive recruitment process.
Mr Jennings is currently the CEO of the Shire of Nannup Council in Western Australia and was endorsed as the successful applicant at a confidential special sitting of Katherine’s elected members on November 11.
He will replace former CEO David Laugher, who resigned from the role in July.
In total, 93 expressions of interest and 23 formal applications were received for the role, with a selection panel - consisting of mayor Fay Miller, deputy mayor Liz Clarke, alderman Peter Gazey and Local Government Association of the Northern Territory CEO Tony Tapsill - shortlisting seven applicants.
Alderman Miller described appointing a new council boss as “the most challenging decision that Katherine Town Council has had to make this term” and said she had been overwhelmed by the level of interest in the role.
“If you think that we had 93 expressions of interest with 23 applications, that’s pretty significant,” she told the Katherine Times.
“We shortlisted seven, two withdrew and we interviewed five who would have been great.
“High on our list for the selection criteria was for a person who will connect, relate to and ensure a strong and positive partnership between council, CEO and the community.”
“We think we’ve chosen the best person for the job.”
Mr Jennings will commence his five-year contract on February 4 and said it had been an “honour” and a “privilege” to accept the role.
“I am very much looking forward to working together with the council and community to bring to reality the potential of Katherine,” he said.
“I applied for the role as I have a strong belief in the meaningful difference that local government can deliver to its community through genuine engagement and a listening leadership.
“My focus will be on building sustainable relationships and results for the Katherine community, economy and environment.
“My family and I have been inspired by Katherine and the Northern Territory’s beauty and uniqueness.”
The council’s current CEO, Neroli Dickens, filled the vacancy left by Mr Laugher on a six-month contract and will continue to operate in the capacity until Mr Jennings begins his tenure.
Alderman Miller praised Mrs Dickens, adding that she had kept the council moving forward during the recruitment process.
“I want to place on public record mine and the council’s great appreciation to Neroli Dickens, who was appointed as the interim CEO when the vacancy arose,” she said.
“Neroli has done an outstanding job in this role and has a great future.”