From the top end to the Great Southern: Shire of Kent welcomes new chief executive Adam Seiler

New Shire of Kent chief executive Adam Seiler began working in local government nearly three decades ago at the City of Gosnells in 1994.

“This is my fifth chief executive role in Australia — some challenges are the same, some are different, but I’m pleased to say the Shire of Kent is in a very strong position and it’s a breath of fresh air for me coming into the role,” Mr Seiler said.

Mr Seiler comes to the Great Southern after working with councils and in Queensland, the Northern Territory and the West Kimberley.

“I like the idea of living and working in a regional area where you can make a difference,” Mr Seiler said.

“I did a lot of research before I applied. Everything about the place was really positive — it’s just such a very inclusive and friendly, proactive community.

“I intend to work with council to deliver some very exciting projects. The elected members of council are responsible for the strategic direction and priority setting for the aspirations of the community.

“As chief executive it is my responsibility in partnership with my team to deliver on those aspirations for council and for the community members.”

Mr Seiler has a five-year contract as the shire’s chief executive.

“One thing I consider important at the end of my time is leaving the organisation in a better place and that’s going to be difficult... it’s already in a fantastic place,” he said.

One area Mr Seiler and the Shire of Kent will focus on will be collaborating with neighbouring shires.

“There are 537 local governments across Australia, there doesn’t have to be 537 ways to do the same thing,” he said.