Shire of Katanning announces Dale Putland as interim CEO as Julian Murphy departs

The Shire of Katanning has announced the appointment of Dale Putland as interim CEO. Mr Putland will keep the seat warm until a permanent CEO is found later this year as the Shire bids farewell to outgoing CEO Julian Murphy, who has accepted the role of Shire of Plantagenet CEO. The Shire of Katanning posted on Facebook to announce Mr Putland’s appointment on Wednesday. Mr Putland has acted as CEO of the Boyup Brook Shire and holds qualifications in sustainable development, environmental and business management and a PhD in public policy. Katanning Shire president Liz Guidera said they were “very happy to welcome Dale to Katanning”. “He is very experienced and qualified for the role, and we look forward to working with him during his time with us,” she said. “We are currently considering applications for a new CEO and I am confident that Dale will keep our organisation moving forward until we make a full-time appointment.” Ms Guidera thanked Mr Murphy for his services to the Shire over the past eight years at the last council meeting held on Thursday, August 24. “Julian’s willingness to attack challenges head-on while demonstrating integrity to himself, the councillors and the community is a testament to his character,” she said. “His unwavering effort and dedication to the role since his appointment in August 2015 has seen Katanning benefit immensely from many projects.” None were more influential than the Royalties for Regions funding which landed the Shire $15.7 million for investment in the Katanning Heritage Centre in 2016.