Executive Leadership Team

Our CEO, Bradley Thomas, is responsible for establishing and maintaining an organisational structure that ensures the decisions of Council are implemented, and its strategic objectives are delivered.

The CEO also provides timely advice to Council.

The Council delegates the powers, duties, and functions of the council to the CEO. The CEO is the only direct employee of the Council, and all of our 200 other employees report through their respective managers to the CEO.

The Executive Leadership Team is appointed by the CEO and assists in the overall leadership and governance of the organisation. In particular it:

  • provides impartial and professional advice to Council
  • implements the policies and strategic directions set by our Council
  • leads the organisation and its people, including enhancing collaboration and providing stewardship for the future
  • manages ongoing programs and services
  • supports good local governance in the community
  • builds partnerships with Victorian and Federal Government and key community and corporate stakeholders, and advocates in the best interests of the community, consistent with Council priorities.

 

Bradley Thomas

Bradley Thomas – Chief Executive Officer (CEO)  

Bradley became CEO of Hepburn Shire Council in May 2022.  He first joined Council in January 2019 as Director Corporate Services.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce, MBA and is a qualified chartered accountant. 

He is experienced in all areas of the organisation, with excellent skills in local government finance, information technology, corporate reporting and advocacy.  He is committed to driving positive changes, leading by example and working to embed continuous improvement into everyday operations.

Prior to joining Hepburn Shire Council, Bradley’s history in Local Government dates back to 2008, with previous roles including Executive Manager Business Performance with Mount Alexander Council, and various finance roles City of Greater Bendigo.

The office of the CEO incorporates the following areas of responsibility:
- Councillor Support
- Communications Team
- Executive Services

Bradley is currently the President of the Victorian chapter of FinPro, the peak body for finance professionals, a role which he has held for past four years.  He is also on the board of Tourism Midwest Victoria Board, and MAV WorkCare.

Contact: bthomas@hepburn.vic.gov.au

Executive Assistant to the CEO & Councillors | Michelle Dove

mdove@hepburn.vic.gov.au

 

Bruce Lucas

Bruce Lucas – Director, Infrastructure and Delivery

Bruce joined Council in February 2012. Bruce is experienced in local government engineering, asset management, emergency management and effective management of operational and capital programs.

The Infrastructure and Delivery Directorate includes:

  • Operations - Works, Parks and Open Spaces, and Engineering
  • Major Projects
  • Waste
  • Facilities
  • Community Safety
  • Emergency Management.

Dr Karina Lamb

Dr Karina Lamb - Director Community and Corporate

Karina Lamb joined Council in July 2023. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Cultural Heritage and is a graduate of the AICD Company Directors Course. Karina specialises in governance, community and cultural development, business transformation, tourism and economic development. She is led by strong personal values of integrity, accountability and respect.

The Community and Corporate Directorate includes:

  • Financial Services
  • Governance and Risk
  • Community Activation
  • Economic Development and Engagement. 

Brooke Holmes

Brooke Holmes - Executive Manager People and Transformation 

Brooke joined Council in July 2023. She holds a Bachelor Behavioural Studies (HR Minor) and Graduate Diploma of Management. 

Brooke is experienced in local government HR and organisational development, safety and risk management, organisational performance and improvement, governance, and customer experience. 

The People and Transformation directorate includes:

  • People and Culture
  • Information Communication Technology (ICT)
  • Customer Experience
  • Transformation and Improvement
  • Grants and Corporate Reporting.

Ron Torres

Ron Torres – Executive Manager Development

Ron joined Council in September 2023.  He holds a Bachelor Planning and Design, and has extensive experience in local government land use planning, strategic transport planning, regulatory services, sustainable development, animal management and economic development programs.

The Development Directorate includes:

  • Strategic Planning
  • Building
  • Statutory Planning
  • Environmental Health
  • Local Laws
  • Community Safety