Mid Murray Council CEO resigns
Ben Scales has announced his intention to leave the role, paving the way for the council to make a fresh start with a new mayor and chief executive.
A changing of the guard is on at the Mid Murray Council – its CEO has announced his resignation only a week after its mayor did the same.
Ben Scales will leave the role in July.
His seven years with the council have been eventful, through no fault of his own.
In that time, the district has faced challenges including natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic, all while the council has worked to get out of a precarious financial situation.
“It has been a rewarding seven years, and I have enjoyed the opportunity of working with the Mid Murray team and contributing to the prosperity and livability of the region,” he said.
“I am proud of all we have achieved as a team, particularly our work during the pandemic, the 2022-23 River Murray flood, and the significant work undertaken to improve and strengthen the sustainability of the business.”
He thanked the council’s senior managers and staff, as well as outgoing Mayor Simone Bailey for her “instrumental” leadership.
Ms Bailey announced just last week that she, too, was on the way out – she will not contest the upcoming council election in November.
She thanked Mr Scales for his service during a challenging period.
“Throughout it all, Ben’s leadership, knowledge, guidance and work ethic have helped guide council through these challenges and he leaves council in a much stronger position,” she said.
“He has been instrumental in leading council’s financial sustainability review over recent years, and with the support of his team, this has significantly improved our financial position, substantially reduced our debt levels, and ensured council is well positioned to continue to serve our community into the future.
“Ben will be missed, and we wish him well with his new opportunity.”
Mr Scales, who previously ran Netball SA and the Adelaide Thunderbirds, will take up an opportunity in the not-for-profit sector.
The council will begin a search for a new CEO in the coming weeks.
The Mid Murray is the second Murraylands council to go in search of a new CEO in recent months, after Coorong CEO Bridget Mather retired in January.
