For the first time in 12 months, Hobsons Bay council has a permanent chief executive with Phu Nguyen officially starting in the role on Monday 19 January.
Originally from the western suburbs, Mr Nguyen most recently served as chief executive of Onkaparinga council in South Australia,
“It’s a privilege to serve as CEO of Hobsons Bay and I’m excited to get started and hit the ground running,” Mr Nguyen said upon assuming the role from interim chief executive Kerry Thompson.
Ms Thompson took over as interim following the suspension of former former chief executive Aaron van Egmond in January 2025 pending an investigation into workplace safety and culture issues at the council.
Mr van Egmond resigned in April and in July a report found Hobsons Bay council had a ‘toxic’ workplace culture.
Earlier this month, a municipal monitor appointed by the state government to oversee the council, John Tanner AM, had his contract extended by a further six months, and a second monitor, Rebecca McKenzie, was appointed to join him.
Both monitors will be in place for at least the first six months of Mr Nguyen’s tenure.
“The organisation has experienced significant change over the past 12 months,” Mr Nguyen said of the upheaval that preceded his appointment, while thanking Ms Thompson for helping him prepare for the role since his appointment in October.
“Kerry has been generous with her time and knowledge, and her thorough handover has ensured I can step into the role with confidence from day one.”
Also starting on Monday was council’s new director of sustainable communities, Hector Gaston, while new chief people officer Chris Sutton began on 12 January and incoming corporate services director Olivia Barry begins on 25 February.
Hobsons Bay mayor Diana Grima welcomed the new executives.
“This year presents a fantastic opportunity for our city,” Cr Grima said.
“With a new CEO, a refreshed executive team, a council group with a year of experience working together, and a new council plan guiding our work, I’m genuinely excited about what lies ahead for Hobsons Bay.”
