This month we caught up with Sheree Schenk, General Manager Governance and Executive (CEO) Office at Adelaide Plains Council about her role, her recent experience with the Executive Leaders Program and what she enjoys most about working in local government. 

What is your role and what does it entail? 

General Manager of Governance and the Executive (CEO) Office. I am responsible for Governance and Legislative Compliance, Work, Health and Safety, Risk Management, Human Resources, Records Management, Property, Marketing and Communications, Media/PR, Customer Service and Administration. My role is quite broad and entails managing Council’s corporate services, ensuring legislative compliance and best practice across the organisation.

What do you enjoy most about working in Local Government? 

I love the diversity of Local Government, particularly being at a ‘smaller’ Council. In my 6.5 years at APC, I have been exposed to every aspect of our organisation. I have been fortunate enough to have had several opportunities and experiences and this has allowed me to grow and develop in a relatively short period of time. I also really enjoy the teamwork and networking opportunities that come with working in LG.

You participated in the 2022 Executive Leaders Program. How did you find the program? Any highlights you’d like to share? 

I thoroughly enjoyed the Executive Leaders Program. It was a unique learning experience that I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of. Having the cohort travel intrastate and stay together for a couple of days created a solid and safe foundation for the group to flourish. I enjoyed how challenging the course was and how much it has made me re-think my approach to leadership. Getting to meet and build relationships with like-minded people was definitely a highlight for me!

Why do you think it is important to step outside your comfort zone and take on new challenges?

It is very easy to become complacent, in both your professional and personal life. This is why it is important to regularly step outside of your comfort zone and take on new challenges. Being out of your comfort zone allows you to mature and grow from new experiences. For me, taking on new and regular challenges contributes to my overall happiness and allows me to live life to the fullest.

Finally, what do you like to do in your leisure time? 

I enjoy sport, fitness and the outdoors. I have a partner and young daughter and we are an adventurous family who love the beach and going camping most weekends!