Kentish and Latrobe councils have appointed Jeff Morgan as their new chief executive officer after a national recruitment process.
Latrobe mayor Peter Freshney and Kentish mayor Kate Haberle announced the appointment, with Morgan to start in the role on July 6 under a five-year performance-based contract.
Freshney said Morgan brought extensive experience across local government and the private sector.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Jeff Morgan as our new chief executive officer,” Freshney said.
“Jeff brings extensive experience across local government and the private sector, along with a collaborative leadership style and a genuine passion for community outcomes.”
The recruitment process attracted applications from across Australia and was run by an independent local government recruitment specialist.
Haberle said the shared leadership arrangement between the two councils had drawn a strong field of candidates.
“Jeff impressed both the recruitment panel and councillors with his breadth of experience, calm and considered approach and clear enthusiasm for our municipalities and communities,” Haberle said.
Morgan has previously worked in local government in Victoria and New South Wales and held senior private sector roles including with the Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation.
He moved to Tasmania in 2023 and has since worked as director of major projects and infrastructure with the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service and most recently as business manager with the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania.
Morgan said he was looking forward to working closely with staff councillors and the community.
“I am excited by the opportunity to work with Kentish and Latrobe councils and to support the delivery of strong services and positive outcomes for the community,” he said.
Morgan said building relationships with staff community organisations and residents would be a key priority, alongside advocating for the future of the region.
“I also look forward to listening to the community and identifying opportunities to strengthen services and support the ongoing growth of both municipalities,” he said.
Morgan will relocate to the region with his wife Emma before starting in the role.
