A smiling headshot of new Onkaparinga CEO Phu Nguyen overlaid on an aerial picture of the Onkaparinga Council's Noarlunga offices.

Published on 18 May 2023

Onkaparinga announces new CEO

Following a rigorous independent selection process and nation-wide search, Phu Nguyen has been appointed as the City of Onkaparinga’s new CEO, the Mayor Moira Were announced today.

"Phu has over 20 years’ experience in local government in both Victoria and NSW—most recently as Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of City Governance at Campbelltown City Council in NSW," she said.

"In his time at Campbelltown City Council, Phu held leadership roles across a broad range of positions including corporate, community services and city operations. Prior to that, he served as Chief Financial Officer at the City of Melbourne for more than eight years.

"Phu’s experience in change management and engagement was impressive and he demonstrated strong skills in leading and developing high performing teams.

"In his presentation to elected members at a special meeting of Council this week, Phu’s personable and supportive approach was clearly evident.

"He clearly articulated how his strategic mindset and depth of experience in large local government organisations could benefit the City of Onkaparinga.

"Phu offers both a strong community focus and a balanced economic perspective, that together will help to position us strongly and ensure Onkaparinga is recognised as a leading local government authority in Australia, for its services, job opportunities, economy, and enviable lifestyle.

"I look forward to welcoming Phu to our organisation in July.

"I wish to express my sincere thanks to Julia Grant who has served admirably as Acting CEO since May 2022.

"Julia has provided sound, consistent and highly respected leadership to the organisation and I greatly appreciate her willingness to step up and ensure the organisation could continue delivering for our community.

"We will be finalising the transition plans over the coming weeks and will provide further updates in due course.

"In the interim, Julia will continue to act as CEO and on behalf of the organisation I again sincerely thank her for her commitment to the City of Onkaparinga and our community."