CEO of Mount Gambier Council Sarah Philpott quits, to retire
A council CEO in SA’s South-East has announced her retirement after decades in local government – the second resignation there within weeks.
SA News
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Mount Gambier Council’s chief executive will wrap up a nearly 30-year career in local government after announcing her retirement.
On Thursday, Sarah Philpott officially handed in her resignation to Mayor Lynette Martin with her final day set for August 1.
It’s the second resignation to rock the council after Kate Amoroso – who had served as councillor since 2018 – abruptly resigned from her role on April 15.
The council is now hunting for a new chief executive, in hopes a replacement will take over before the next council election.
“This will allow the new CEO to be in place well in advance of the next council election to assist this current council to progress against our priorities, and to ensure a smooth induction for council post-election,” Ms Martin said.
Ms Philpott said working across different roles in local government had been a “privilege”.
“It is a sector where you never stop learning, where you help make it possible for communities to reach their potential, and to work with team members who are passionate and committed to providing positive outcomes,” Mr Philpott said.
She believed the council had successfully served the community during her time and had left a “good foundation” for the next chief executive.
Ms Philpott also thanked the “executive team and the wonderful staff” within the council’s team.
“I could not have asked for a better team to work with,” she said.
Before she formally leaves the role, she will help the council finish the current budget process and process several key projects.
On behalf of the council and community, Ms Martin applauded Ms Philpott for her “commitment and hard work”.
“Sarah has supported me as mayor, and elected members in our endeavours to achieve outcomes for our city and community,” Ms Marin said.
“And maintain our position as South Australia’s largest regional centre, including the delivery of our city’s largest infrastructure project, Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre.”
After retiring, Ms Philpott plans to spend her time with family, friends and “explore new learning”.
Ms Philpott started her career in local government with the council in 1992.
She went on work in senior and executive roles in local government in three states, before returning to the Mount Gambier Council in 2021.
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Originally published as CEO of Mount Gambier Council Sarah Philpott quits, to retire
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