Executive Leadership Team

Chief Executive Officer
Scott Barber

Scott is a seasoned executive leader with over 20 years of experience driving regional transformation across Victoria and New South Wales.

As the current CEO of Swan Hill Rural City Council, Scott has spearheaded innovative housing initiatives including the “Housing Action: Greater Swan Hill”, the Development Advisory Service and supported the development 170 affordable and private housing lots in recent years. His leadership has enabled record capital investment, significant operational efficiencies, and securing of significant external grant funding.

A passionate advocate for rural resilience and community growth, Scott brings expertise in infrastructure planning, stakeholder engagement and sustainable development. His strategic approach has delivered enduring impact in some of regional Australia's fastest-growing communities. With a strong background in local government, rural water management and change management, Scott continues to influence policy and practice through high-level submissions to federal and state inquiries, and his work in regional advocacy and partnership forums.

Areas of responsibility: The CEO is responsible for the day-to-day management of operations, in accordance with the strategic directions of the Council Plan. Four Directors and the CEO form the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and lead the organisation.

Director Community and Cultural Services
Bruce Myers

Bruce has served the community for more than 30 years, beginning his career with the Swan Hill Regional Library in 1994. He was appointed Library Manager in 1998 and progressed to Director Community and Cultural Services in 2007.

Bruce leads a diverse portfolio across libraries, family, youth and children’s services, the Art Gallery, performing arts, and a broad range of community programs, while also supporting service delivery in Swan Hill and Robinvale. He is committed to strong customer service outcomes and empowering his large team of frontline staff to deliver responsive, community-focused services.

Throughout his career, Bruce has played an active leadership role in community engagement, particularly in Robinvale, and represents Swan Hill Rural City Council on regional human services partnerships. He keeps Council informed on emerging trends and complex social issues to support strategic decision-making. His key achievements include overseeing the library fit-out and relocation, redevelopment of the Art Gallery, implementation of Youth Support Services, development of the Robinvale Library, and managing the successful transition of aged care programs while ensuring continuity of service and strong staff satisfaction. Bruce holds a Bachelor of Librarianship and a Certificate IV in Frontline Management, complemented by training in change management and senior leadership.

Areas of responsibility: Family Youth and Children's Services, Libraries, Art Gallery, Robinvale Resource Centre, Customer Service and Revenue, Performing Arts and Venues.

Director Corporate Services
Stephen Fernando

Stephen commenced his role as Director Corporate Services with Council in November 2025. Stephen is a strategy and finance professional with extensive experience in strategy formulation, business transformation, technology-enabled system improvements, and data analytics. He helped deliver Australia’s first fleet-wide rollout of smart water meters in Queensland, and developed the country’s leading Meter Data Management system for water utilities.

A strong advocate for collaboration, Stephen has led several cultural change programs and is committed to creating inclusive, safe team environments. In addition to his experience within the local government sector, Stephen has also held senior positions in the commercial sector, including roles with multinational corporations in Asia and the Middle East. He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the USA, is a CPA, and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). Stephen currently serves on the Board of MADEC Ltd., a disability services NFP organisation.

Areas of responsibility: Finance, Property and Procurement, Human Resources, Governance and Risk, Information Technology.

Director Development and Planning
Michelle Grainger 

Michelle commenced as Director Development and Planning in January 2024. A qualified town planner, Michelle has worked for a number of rural Councils in Victoria, managing statutory and strategic planning, economic development, regulatory services and environment teams.

Balancing sustainable land use outcomes with growing rural and regional economies has led to Michelle having a variety of experience in agriculture, renewable energy, industry and business development proposals. She enjoys working in local government as it provides a range of opportunities to work with and for the community.

Areas of responsibility: Development, Pioneer Settlement, Economic and Community Development.

Director Infrastructure
Leah Johnston

Leah commenced her role as Director Infrastructure with Council in April 2023. She is a qualified engineer with an Honours degree in Engineering and is recognised on the National Engineering Register. Leah also holds an Advanced Diploma in Project Management and a Diploma in Emergency Management.

Leah has built a long-standing career across engineering and works departments at various councils throughout Melbourne and South West Victoria before relocating to Swan Hill. She brings extensive technical expertise, a strong customer service focus, and a proactive approach to delivering the best outcomes for the community.

Leah has successfully secured significant grant funding and has led improvements in the delivery of capital works to high quality standards, along with strengthening maintenance practices across Council’s infrastructure assets. While addressing assets, Leah ensures that the focus remains firmly on achieving the best value for the community.

Areas of responsibility: Engineering, Asset Management, Road Construction and Maintenance, Project Management Office, Parks and Gardens, Waste Services, and the Airport.