Following an extensive recruitment process, Golden Plains Shire Council is pleased to announce that Jo Wilson has secured the role of Director of Community, Planning and Growth.
With extensive experience in senior Council roles and the not-for-profit community sector, Jo brings to Golden Plains Shire her insight into growth area planning and the importance of community resilience, liveability and early provision of services in a growth environment.
Jo has recently served two stints as the Acting Director of Resilient and Connected Communities at Banyule City Council, having held the Manager position, and spent six years working at Mitchell Shire Council including 18 months as Acting Director Advocacy and Community Services.
During her time at Mitchell Shire Council, Jo navigated challenges including increased service demand within tight funding constraints, response and recovery for natural emergency events, climate change adaptation, and the increased cost of living impacting the social fabric of community and liveability. Jo has also worked alongside strategic planners and the Victorian Planning Authority on precinct structure plans (PSPs), developing a solid working knowledge of planning and growth.
Golden Plains Shire Council CEO Shane Walden said Jo’s extensive experience combined with her passion for community made her a perfect fit to lead the Community, Planning and Growth Directorate.
“Jo’s breadth of experience, leadership style, variety of strategic work she oversaw, collegiate approach and presentation skills is impressive. She is also mindful of the responsibility for preserving rural character and respecting the lifestyle and amenity of the Shire’s townships,” Mr Walden said.
“We look forward to welcoming Jo to Golden Plains Shire, as she will help us develop and deliver vital community services with a continued focus on strategic planning and growth.”
Jo will begin as Director of Community, Planning and Growth on Tuesday 28 January 2025.