GRANT Moller will return to the Goulburn Mulwaree Council fold, this time in a more senior role. Mr Moller was this month appointed water services manager following a lengthy recruitment process.
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The former project engineer on council’s water team left in July 2009. He became Queanbeyan City Council’s water services manager but remained a Goulburn resident. Goulburn Mulwaree’s general manager Chris Berry said Mr Moller had made a career and lifestyle choice in taking up the post.
“His family is here and he’s involved in a number of local organisations,” he said.
“...He has extensive experience both in the private and public sector. He has worked with councils, has been here previously and knows the issues we’re facing.”
Fourteen people applied for the job, advertised earlier this year. It was left vacant by Greg Horvath’s departure last December. From this, four were short-listed and interviewed by a panel comprising management, Mayor Geoff Kettle, Cr Neil Penning and an independent person - the manager of Shoalhaven Water.
John Klem Consulting was the recruitment agency. Marina Hollands has been acting in the role since December. She also applied for the position. Mr Berry said he was not worried about the five-month gap in filling the role as Mrs Hollands was very well versed in water operations and had acted in the role before.
“Also, (engineering director) Terry Cooper was overseeing the Highland Source so the position was not over burdened,” he said.
At a recent meeting, Cr Geoff Peterson also praised Mrs Hollands’ capable performance. Earlier this year councillors increased the water manager’s salary package. After extensive debate they settled on a salary of up to $120,000, including private use of a council vehicle, in order to draw quality candidates.
At that time, two water managers had resigned within 19 months. Mr Berry said while the Highland Source would remain under Mr Cooper’s direction until its June completion, Mr Moller would have plenty of challenges.
“When the pipeline is complete, it will fall under the water services operations,” he said.
“The sewerage treatment plant also needs upgrading and Cr (Neil) Penning’s group is discussing alternative water initiatives, including better treatment and its re-use.” Meantime, some 20km of the Bowral to Goulburn pipeline have been laid. Mr Moller will start his new job on April 27.
