Andrew Cooney appointed new CEO of City of Greater Bendigo

Media release

Greater Bendigo City Council has appointed Andrew Cooney as the Chief Executive Officer of the City of Greater Bendigo. 

Mr Cooney will succeed Craig Niemann, who will depart the City in December. 

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said Mr Cooney’s appointment followed a competitive, external process where his experience and engagement with community shone through. 

“Having worked at three Councils across the Loddon Mallee region, Andrew is a highly regarded executive, passionate about our community and has long, established relationships locally and at the State level. Andrew’s recent experience has included leading the City’s involvement in the development of Galkangu – Bendigo GovHub and his role as Director Commonwealth Games,” Cr Metcalf said.

“Andrew brings a community-focused leadership style, strong advocacy, and a commitment to delivering outcomes that support our local communities. We are delighted that amongst such a strong field of candidates was someone local who is familiar with Greater Bendigo and all it has to offer.

“Since joining the City in 2018 as Director Corporate Performance, Andrew has also acted as CEO and Director Strategy and Growth and in November 2022 was appointed as Director Commonwealth Games.

“Andrew is well-versed in all areas of the organisation, and his skills in financial management, governance, advocacy, and community engagement will ensure Greater Bendigo and the wider region continues to prosper.

“Council would also like to commend Craig, not only for his time as CEO and outstanding commitment to our community, but also for his excellent leadership as we embarked on the search for a new CEO.

“Certainty and continuity at the CEO level has ensured we could plan for ongoing success, and we are confident in a smooth transition to the organisation’s next chapter with Andrew.” 

Mr Cooney said he was excited by the opportunity to lead the City into its next phase.

“It is a privilege to be selected as the next Chief Executive Officer of the City of Greater Bendigo,” Mr Cooney said.

“I am proud to call Greater Bendigo home with my family, and it is very special to have the opportunity to lead the organisation and make a valuable contribution to our local community.

“I am excited by what the future holds, including supporting our plans for the sustainable growth of our region, the completion of the Bendigo Airport terminal expansion, continuing our advocacy for State and Federal Government funding for the Bendigo Art Gallery expansion and the Bendigo Regional Employment Precinct.

“There are also community-focused projects underway to improve everyday living, including investment in the Bendigo Low Line separated walking/cycling network, Municipal Baths redevelopment, stage one of the Ironbark Gully Trail and the multi-year Strathfieldsaye Town 
Square project.

“I look forward to leading the City as we continue to support our community and aim to leave an enduring and positive legacy for Greater Bendigo.”

Mr Cooney will start in the role of Chief Executive Officer on Monday December 18, 2023.
 

Locations:
Greater Bendigo