John Merritt Appointed Chief Executive Of Epa

JOHN MERRITT APPOINTED CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF EPA

Acting Premier Rob Hulls today appointed a new chief executive of the Victorian Environment Protection Authority.

WorkSafe Victoria executive director of health and safety John Merritt has been appointed for a five year term, effective on February 1, 2010.

Mr Merritt replaces the outgoing CEO Mick Bourke, and joins the current chairman Cheryl Batagol at the helm of the Victoria's environment watchdog.

"John Merritt is highly qualified to head up EPA Victoria and will follow through with the work of Mick Bourke and the acting CEO Terry A'Hearn.

"He has a diverse background across a range of Government, private, and not-for-profit organisations. He has also held senior management roles in leading Australian and international organisations."

Mr Merritt has held the position of executive director at WorkSafe Victoria since 2001 and has a track record of consistently delivering and meeting key challenges.

Ms Batagol said she welcomed Mr Merritt's appointment and looked forward to working with him as EPA moved into a new era of environmental regulation and sustainability in 2010.

"I am excited to be a part of EPA at this critical time in our history, when our community will increasingly look to us for leadership and support. I am very confident that we will rise to this challenge," Mr Merritt said.

Media inquiries:
Ruth Ward
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SOURCE: EPA Victoria