Golden Plains Shire Council today announced the appointment of Shane Walden as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Shane will begin his new role on Monday 2 September 2024, succeeding Eric Braslis who resigned as CEO earlier this year, with Interim CEO Michael Tudball supporting Council since that time.
Shane currently serves as Macedon Ranges Shire Council Director Assets and Operations. With more than 20 years’ experience in engineering, asset management and operational environments, seamlessly transitioning between depot settings, boardrooms, and Council chambers, he is known for building and maintaining productive and constructive relationships in complex stakeholder environments.
Shane holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the Australian Institute of Business and multiple certifications in data analysis, visualisation, and data-driven decision-making. His leadership and management style blends a personable, down-to-earth approach with a commitment to fiscal responsibility, efficient business processes, and organisational integration to optimise customer experience.
Golden Plains Shire Council Mayor Cr Brett Cunningham said he was looking forward to working closely with Shane, who brings a clear and ambitious vision for the future of the Shire.
“I was thrilled at the calibre of applicants that applied for the role of CEO and believe that we will be in incredibly good hands with the choice that Councillors have made. With Shane’s deep understanding of opportunities and challenges ahead of us, we are confident he’s the right person to lead Golden Plains Shire Council through its next chapter,” Cr Cunningham said.
"On behalf of the Councillors and the whole of the organisation, I wish to extend a warm welcome to Shane and his family to our community.”
Shane expressed his excitement about joining the Golden Plains Shire Council team and continuing the delivery of positive outcomes for the Golden Plains Shire community and the broader region.
“Golden Plains Shire is known for its strong sense of community with people working together to achieve common goals and outcomes. This sense of community benefits the entire Shire and I look forward to continuing the conversations with the community, while embracing innovation and best practises,” Shane said.
“There are a number of exciting challenges and opportunities ahead. I look forward to working with the dedicated teams at Council. My goal is to foster responsible growth in alignment with the State Government’s Housing Strategy, recognising the importance of developing essential infrastructure such as roads and facilities, and protecting our rural character and environment,” he said.
“A key priority for Council is to ensure financial stability and effective resource management across the Shire. I seek to work with Council, staff, stakeholders and communities to deliver great outcomes for the Golden Plains Shire and the broader region.”
Interim CEO Michael Tudball will continue in his role until Shane commences his tenure as CEO on Monday 2 September 2024. Council extends its gratitude to Michael for his exceptional leadership over the past four months as we welcome our new CEO.