Eric Lumsden to head Planning & Infrastructure

City of Melville chief executive Eric Lumsden will become the new Director General of the Department of Planning and Infrastructure, taking up the role in the next two months, Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan has announced.

Greg Martin left the role mid year to take up a research role at Curtin University.

The full text of a ministerial announcement is pasted below

One of Western Australia's most respected administrators and planners has been selected to head the Department for Planning and Infrastructure.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan today announced that Eric Lumsden, currently City of Melville chief executive officer and former City of Swan CEO, would commence his appointment as Director General in the next two months.

"Eric Lumsden's appointment is a great result for the department and for WA," Ms MacTiernan said.

"Eric has shown strong leadership, both in local government and beyond, winning great respect across industry and government.

"His skills will help the Government achieve a high degree of collaboration with the private sector and other tiers of government in managing the massive growth WA is experiencing.

"With almost 30 years of experience and achievement at a senior level in large local governments, he will also be well equipped to oversee a government agency with more than 1,200 staff and an annual budget of about $170million.

"His energy and strong commitment to mentoring staff will also assist greatly in attracting and retaining key personnel."