CEO and directors

The executive leadership team comprises the chief executive officer and three directors.

Interim Chief Executive Officer, Kerry Thompson

Kerry brings more than 30 years’ experience working in senior management roles across state and local government and the not-for-profit sectors, most recently as the chief executive at the Municipal Association of Victoria.

She has been the chief executive at the City of Wyndham and City of Maribyrnong and is a board member at cohealth and Vision Super.

Kerry oversees the entire operation of the Council, as guided by the strategic decisions of the mayor and councillors of Hobsons Bay. The communications, engagement and advocacy teams all report directly to the CEO.

Interim Director Corporate Services, Allison Kenwood

Allison is an experienced leader with more than 30 years in public and community services sectors, drawing on 16 years in state government, five years in local government, and significant community sector experience.

Allison brings proven expertise in strategic planning, performance reporting, governance, policy development, community engagement, project management and business transformation.

Allison thrives on collaborating with both community members and staff teams to achieve shared outcomes. She is passionate about creating environments where people feel valued and empowered to contribute to meaningful community impact.

The Acting Director Corporate Services is responsible for:

Corporate integrity
Finance
Governance and local laws
Digital services
People and culture
Learning communities
Customer service

Director Infrastructure and City Services, Matthew Irving

Matthew has worked in local government across the last 15 years with extensive experience in project management, asset management, strategic business and community planning, service delivery, and placemaking in local communities. He is a strategic and innovative leader that seeks creative solutions to complex problems, particularly in regional communities and lean organisations.

With a Bachelor of Civil and Structural Engineering and Graduate Diploma of Business Management (Executive), Matthew enjoys the challenge of working with local communities to create healthy and thriving cities and towns.

The Director Infrastructure and City Services is responsible for:

Capital Works
City Services
Active Communities and Assets
Strategic Infrastructure

Interim Director Sustainable Communities, Elyse Rider

Elyse brings more than 15 years' experience in local government across the western region, including senior roles at Brimbank, Wyndham and Melton.

Most recently, she was manager of community strengthening and social planning at Brimbank, and has acted as community director for significant periods at Brimbank, Melton and Wyndham.

Elyse has a strong background in community development, social policy, infrastructure and service planning, organisational strategy, and advocacy, and is a values-driven leader committed to supporting positive cultural development.

Elyse holds a Doctoral degree in Community Development, qualifications in change management, and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

The Director Sustainable Communities is responsible for: