Published on Tuesday, 5 May 2026 at 12:01:51 PM
MEDIA RELEASE
Shire of West Arthur | Issued by the Chief Executive Officer
Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Finance & Corporate Services) – Apply now
For immediate release
Date: 27 April 2026
The Shire of West Arthur is inviting applications from experienced finance professionals for the newly advertised position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO)—a rare opportunity to step into an executive leadership role in a high-performing regional local government and accelerate your pathway toward a future Director or CEO position.
Chief Executive Officer Vin Fordham Lamont said the role is ideally suited to an aspiring local government finance leader who wants broad exposure, real influence, and the chance to make a visible difference in a supportive environment.
"This is an outstanding career opportunity for a motivated finance professional ready to step into executive leadership," Mr Fordham Lamont said. "You’ll be working with a friendly, capable team and a progressive, well-functioning Council—where your advice is valued and your contribution genuinely shapes outcomes for the community."
A leadership role with breadth, impact and development
The DCEO leads the Shire’s Corporate Services portfolio, including finance, governance, risk, integrated planning and reporting, HR and organisational development, information management, customer service and IT.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and coordinating the Shire’s financial management (budgeting, reporting, controls and long-term financial planning).
- Ensuring strong governance, compliance and administrative performance, and providing high-level advice to the CEO, Council and senior staff.
- Supporting organisational improvement and a positive workplace culture, with Acting CEO opportunities during CEO leave periods (as delegated).
Attractive package + regional lifestyle benefits
The Shire is offering a fixed-term appointment of up to five (5) years with a salary range of $110,000–$125,000 (depending on experience).
The employment package also includes an employer-provided vehicle (with personal use) and an executive-style 4x2 house (rent-free)—a significant advantage for applicants relocating to the area.
Why Darkan?
Based in Darkan, the Shire of West Arthur offers an authentic country lifestyle with a strong sense of community—"a small community with a big heart" that consistently punches above its weight. Darkan is centrally located with convenient road access to Perth, Bunbury and Albany, making it ideal for professionals seeking both regional living and access to major centres.
The town and district offer excellent community facilities and recreation options, including a swimming pool, 24-hour community gym, arts and crafts clubs and workshops, golf course, rifle club, bowling green, basketball and tennis courts, and football oval—alongside a strong range of local services and businesses. The district’s future is also exciting, with multiple renewable energy projects such as wind farms proposed for the region.
"If you’re looking for a leadership role where you can broaden your executive capability, work closely with Council, and enjoy a genuine community lifestyle—this is the opportunity," Mr Lamont said.
How to apply
Applications close 4.00pm Thursday 7 May 2026 (the Shire reserves the right to close the application period early).
Applicants should submit a cover letter and current CV (including qualifications and referee details) to: hr@westarthur.wa.gov.au (Attention: Chief Executive Officer).
The application package is available on the Shire’s website:
- Current Vacancies: https://www.westarthur.wa.gov.au/your-shire/employment/current-vacancies.aspx
For a confidential discussion, contact CEO Vin Fordham Lamont on (08) 9736 2400.
Media contact
Vin Fordham Lamont
Chief Executive Officer, Shire of West Arthur
T: (08) 9736 2400
E: hr@westarthur.wa.gov.au
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