General News
30 May, 2025
Peter Harriott to commence five-year term as Central Goldfields Shire CEO
Peter Harriott joins the Central Goldfields Shire bringing with him three decades of local government experience.
Peter Harriott, with three decades of local government experience, has been appointed the new CEO of the Central Goldfields Shire Council.
Beginning the job on July 1, Mr Harriott joins the shire on a five-year contract following councillor’s decision at the May council meeting.
Central Goldfields Shire mayor Grace La Vella said she was thrilled to appoint a new CEO following a thorough and competitive recruitment process.
“Appointing a CEO is a critical decision, and we were incredibly fortunate to consider a wide range of highly experienced candidates,” she said.
“What stood out most was Mr Harriott’s local government experience and knowledge having worked in the sector for the past 30 years.”
Mr Harriott has previously served as CEO at Greater Shepparton City Council and Wattle Range Council in South Australia, he’s also held senior executive positions at Shepparton and Gannawarra Shire Council, and most recently was appointed by the Victorian Government as a Municipal Monitor at Buloke Shire Council.
“Mr Harriott is highly respected in the local government sector and is a leader with a strong community focus. This appointment marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our organisation and will build on the great work already underway at council,” Cr La Vella said.
“We congratulate Mr Harriott on his appointment and look forward to welcoming him to the Central Goldfields.”
Incoming CEO Mr Harriott thanked the councillors for choosing him for the role and was keen to get started as soon as possible.
“As well as having more in-depth discussions with the councillors, I look forward to also meeting staff and community representatives to better understand the opportunities and challenges ahead for Central Goldfields Shire Council,” he said.
Mr Harriott will be taking over from interim CEO Sally Jones who took on the temporary role following Lucy Roffey’s resignation last year.
Ms Roffey first joined the shire in 2018 when council was under administration.
Cr La Vella ackowledged Ms Jones contributions to the shire in her short time as CEO.
“Sally has ably led our organisation for the past nine months through a critical time of transition with the council election and induction and the development of our council plan and budget,” she said.
“We extend our gratitude to Sally for her contribution, support and guidance and wish her all the best for the future.”
Ms Jones will continue in the role until Mr Harriott starts on Tuesday, July 1.