Historic appointment marks a new era of growth, diversity, and leadership for Frankston City Council
Frankston, Victoria, Australia, November 2025 – Frankston City Council has announced the appointment of Tennille Bradley as its new Chief Executive Officer, following a Special Council Meeting held on 10 November 2025. Ms. Bradley’s appointment marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first female CEO in the Council’s history. She will officially join the city in mid-January 2026.
Ms. Bradley joins Frankston City from the City of Greater Geelong, where she served as Executive Director, Placemaking, leading a $26.5 million portfolio and managing over 200 staff across planning, growth, and economic and cultural development. With extensive experience in major-project delivery, economic transformation, and community-centered governance, she brings a strong record of delivering impactful results in one of Victoria’s fastest-growing municipalities.
“Frankston City is changing, and changing fast. We are delivering major infrastructure, welcoming unprecedented public and private investment, strengthening our partnerships across government and industry, and shaping the next chapter in Frankston City’s growth as a key metropolitan city,” said Mayor Kris Bolam JP. “We are thrilled to welcome Frankston City Council’s first female CEO. With three of our five executive leaders already women, this appointment continues our commitment to diversity and equity across the city council.”
The CEO recruitment process, conducted in partnership with Davidson Executive Search and overseen by an independently chaired CEO Employment and Remuneration Committee, attracted a strong and diverse field of applicants from across local government and non-government sectors.
“Tennille brings exceptional credentials, proven executive leadership, and a deep passion for delivering community-led outcomes,” said Mayor Bolam. “She understands growing cities, the importance of strategic advocacy, and how to lead high-performing teams through opportunity and change.”
“Frankston is a city on the rise,” said Tennille Bradley. “You can feel the momentum and ambition here — from the waterfront to the hospital precinct, the metropolitan activity centre, and the new investment landing across its suburbs. I’m excited to work closely with the Mayor, Councillors, staff, partners, and the community to ensure Frankston City grows in a way that is sustainable, inclusive, and true to the city’s identity and strengths.”
During her time at City of Greater Geelong, Ms. Bradley worked closely with the Victorian Government to support major projects under the City Deal framework, including the $449 million Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, and the Revitalising Central Geelong projects such as The Green Spine, Laneways activation, and Arts & Cultural Precinct revitalization.
City of Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM said, “Tennille has played a significant role in driving positive change and major city-shaping initiatives here in Geelong. While it’s a loss for us, we couldn’t be happier to see her bring her talent and passion to Frankston.”
Mayor Bolam also thanked Cam Arullanantham, who has served as Interim CEO since July following the departure of former CEO Phil Cantillon, praising his leadership during the transition. “Cam has provided steady hands, calm leadership, and unwavering commitment to our community and staff during this period of change. He has been an outstanding leader and I encourage him to seek future leadership opportunities.”
Upon Ms. Bradley’s commencement in January 2026, Mr. Arullanantham will return to his executive role overseeing major service delivery and capital projects, including the $60 million Frankston Basketball and Gymnastics Stadium redevelopment — the largest infrastructure project in the city’s history.
Frankston City is currently in one of its most significant transformation periods, evolving from a town to a thriving metropolitan city, with:
- Major improvements across the city centre and foreshore
- Expanding private development and job creation
- Significant state and federal investments in health, transport, and recreation
- Strategic reforms for sustainable housing and liveability
- Cost-of-living support, including the $1.7 million Local Support Package
“We have the plan, the partnerships, the progress, and the political leadership. Now we have the corporate leadership and continued momentum to take Frankston City to the next level,” said Mayor Bolam.
About Frankston City Council
Frankston City Council is one of Victoria’s most dynamic and rapidly developing municipalities, strategically positioned as a key metropolitan hub in Melbourne’s south-east. With a focus on infrastructure investment, community wellbeing, and sustainable growth, the Council is driving initiatives to enhance liveability, attract business investment, and foster innovation for its residents and visitors.
Read Also : When HR “Produces Nothing”: A Response to Jennifer Sey’s Anti-HR Vision
The Fine Balance: Navigating Work, Life, and Mental Wellbeing
Mind the Leadership Gap – From Learning to Real-World Impact
How the Adecco Group is empowering its employees for the future of work
