Council chief calls it a day

Melton Council’s chief executive Kelvin Tori is stepping down from the top job after a decade in the role. Photo supplied

Benjamin Millar

Melton Council’s chief executive Kelvin Tori is stepping down from the top job after a decade in the role and almost 20 years at the council.

Mr Tori came on board in 2002 as the corporate services general manager, stepping into the chief executive role in 2011.

He will be hanging up his hat and moving into retirement from October 31, with a search now underway for his replacement.

Mr Tori said he has mixed emotions about leaving the organisation.

“I’ve had the most rewarding 19 years at the City of Melton, during which time I have had the great pleasure and honour to work with an amazing array of talented and committed staff and councillors who have delivered quality outcomes for this community,” he said.

“It’s been fantastic to see this city grow and develop in recent years, and to work with councillors and staff who are confidently planning a strong future for residents and visitors.”

Mr Tori said dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic over the last 18 months has been extremely difficult, but he has admired how resilient staff have been in the face of all the challenges it has put in their path.

“I’m very much looking forward to this next stage of my life and, when restrictions allow, have plans to travel and spend more quality time with my family,” he said.

Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said Mr Tori has led the council through a number of important decisions and projects.

“His knowledge within the local government sector and his work with key stakeholders has been an asset to Council and has supported us through several successful partnerships that have benefited our community,” she said.

“On behalf of Council, I’d like to thank Mr Tori for his dedication to the organisation and his longstanding leadership as a CEO. We wish him all the very best for his retirement.”