Wodonga Council has announced Mark Dixon as its new Chief Executive Officer. 
Mr Dixon comes from Wodonga TAFE which he joined in 2015 as the CEO and Managing Director. During his tenure, the TAFE has grown to be the most successful regional TAFE in Victoria winning the Australian Large Training Provider of the Year in 2018
He spent more than 30 years in both the British and Australian Armies with active service in Iraq and Afghanistan and worked throughout Europe and the US.
He was also a Commanding Officer at Bandiana’s Army Logistic Training Centre.
He continues his association with the Defence Force as an Honorary Colonel for the Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps.
Wodonga Mayor Cr Anna Speedie said Mr Dixon came to the council with a sound base of regional knowledge and experience.
“Mark lives and works here, having led key organisations in our city in Defence and education, he knows the issues facing our community, Cr Speedie said.
“Leading Wodonga TAFE to a national award win last year is evidence of a proven record in leading large organisations to reach great heights and we see a great organisational fit with Mark to build on the great culture and achievements of Wodonga Council”, Cr Speedie said.
“As councillors, we look forward to working with him in continuing the momentum that has seen this city transform in recent years.”
Cr Speedie said the role had attracted strong candidates with national and international experience and Mr Dixon’s appointment came after a rigorous process involving all councillors.
Mr Dixon said he was delighted to be able to join the Mayor, councillors and the council staff in continuing to strengthen the wonderful Wodonga community.
“I am a part of our community, having lived in Wodonga with my family since 2005, and I am genuinely excited at the opportunity to listen to our community’s needs and deliver ongoing positive change,” Mr Dixon said.
“I will bring many years of experience to this important role, with a strong focus on honest and ethical leadership and good listening skills – we are collectively here to meet our community’s needs and deliver a vibrant, inclusive and positive city that is seen nationally as a great place to live, work, invest and visit”.
Cr Speedie paid tribute to staff and praised their continued good work.
“The staff do an excellent job in providing services to this community and this has not wavered through this process,” Cr Speedie said.
“I particularly want to thank our Executive team, especially Debra Mudra and Leon Schultz, who have taken on the role as Acting CEO since the departure of Patience at the end of last year.”
The appointment was passed at a special council meeting this morning.
Mr Dixon will take up his role with the council on April 23.
Read Mr Dixon's bio here