Craig Lloyd announced as City of Joondalup new CEO after nationwide search

The City of Joondalup has looked across the Nullarbor to find its new leader, with experienced local government leader Craig Lloyd announced as the city’s new chief executive officer.

Mr Lloyd has served as CEO of the City of Whittlesea in Melbourne since 2020, leading the municipality through significant organisational reform after its entire council was sacked prior to his appointment.

Joondalup’s announcement marks the end of an extensive search that began after former chief executive James Pearson told staff last June he would not be seeking reappointment when his contract ended.

Mr Pearson had led the city since early 2021 and wrapped up his term as CEO last month.

Before moving to Victoria in 2003, Mr Lloyd began his career as a police officer in the UK.

He has since worked across local and State government, emergency management and community services for more than two decades.

Prior to joining the City of Whittlesea, Mr Lloyd was CEO of the neighbouring Murrindindi Shire Council for two-and-a-half years.

The City of Joondalup said he also had experience in digital transformation, customer service improvement and organisational performance, and was recognised for his collaborative leadership style and strong governance focus.

Mr Lloyd said he felt honoured and privileged to be appointed CEO, describing Joondalup as a forward-thinking, vibrant and diverse city.

“I’m excited to build on Joondalup’s strong foundations and work closely with our elected members, staff and the community to deliver what matters most to our residents,” Mr Lloyd said.

“As the gateway to Perth’s northern suburbs, Joondalup plays a vital role as a regional city and economic hub and I look forward to the opportunities ahead as we continue to shape a sustainable and prosperous future together.”

In February, the City of Whittlesea council voted to offer Mr Lloyd a new contract that would have extended his tenure until at least 2031.

Last year, Mr Lloyd was in the headlines after he barred the mayor of the City of Whittlesea from attending in-person council meetings over allegations of intimidating behaviour and poor conduct.

The mayor was then suspended for six months by the State Government and later found to have brought the council into disrepute.

City of Joondalup mayor Daniel Kingston said the Joondalup council was united in its decision to appoint Mr Lloyd and welcomed his experience, values and strong leadership.

“Craig is a highly respected and accomplished local government leader with a proven record of strong organisational performance and positive community outcomes,” Mr Kingston said.

“Craig’s experience leading complex organisations, combined with his commitment to innovation, transparency and community engagement, makes him an excellent fit for the city.

“We are entering an exciting period of opportunity and we’re confident Craig will provide the strategic leadership needed to support our community, our staff and our long-term aspirations.”

Mr Lloyd is set to receive a salary of more than $439,000 as the City of Joondalup is classified as a band 1 municipality by the Salaries and Allowances Tribunal.

He will formally begin his tenure as CEO on May 25, with the city’s director infrastructure services, Nico Claassen, to continue as temporary CEO until then.