Virginia Miltrup named new City of Karratha chief executive, replacing the outgoing Chris Adams

Virginia Miltrup has been announced as the new chief executive of the City of Karratha and will take over the reigns in October. Ms Miltrup has a long history in business having held senior executive roles with CBH Group, Synergy and Thomson Reuters (Asia Pacific) and currently is the executive director community and business services at the City of Vincent. She is also the board chair of philanthropy organisation 100 Women and the regional arts organisation International Art Space. Ms Miltrup will replace outgoing chief executive Chris Adams who announced he was stepping down after 10 years in the role in May. Speaking to the Pilbara News in June, Mr Adams said it had been an honour to be part of the projects and initiatives that had been achieved during his time. Ms Miltrup said the City of Karratha has an inspiring vision to be ‘Australia’s most liveable regional city’ and is recognised as a progressive Local Government. “The Pilbara is a powerhouse of the West Australian and national economy, and the City of Karratha needs to advocate on behalf of the local community as this occurs,” she said, “The labour, housing and supply chain challenges faced throughout Australia are amplified in regional centres. “I believe my corporate and public sector experience will support continued collaboration with multi-nationals, Federal and State governments as we respond to these challenges.” Ms Miltrup said she was personally motivated by community building, delivering value to ratepayers and supporting local businesses. “There is a great team at the City of Karratha and I’m looking forward to working closely with staff and elected members for the benefit of the broader Karratha community,” she said. Mayor Peter Long stated that after a nationwide search for an appropriate replacement, Ms Miltrup was selected from a large and highly competitive field of candidates. Ms Miltrup will begin her role as chief executive on October 31, with Phil Trestrail and Arron Minchin taking on the role of acting chief executive in September and October.