Frankston City Council has appointed Tennille Bradley as its new Chief Executive Officer — the first woman ever to take on the role.
Ms Bradley will officially begin in January 2026, joining from the City of Greater Geelong, where she is currently Executive Director of Placemaking. She brings more than a decade of experience in major-project delivery, urban transformation and economic development, and currently oversees a $26.5 million budget and 200 staff.
A milestone moment for Frankston
Mayor Kris Bolam JP said the appointment represents a significant milestone for Frankston and comes at an important time in the city’s growth.
“Frankston City is changing, and changing fast. We’re delivering major infrastructure, attracting unprecedented public and private investment, strengthening partnerships across government and industry, and shaping the next chapter in our city’s growth,” Cr Bolam said.
He also highlighted that Ms Bradley’s appointment strengthens Council’s ongoing commitment to gender equality and diversity.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Frankston City Council’s first female CEO. With three of our five executive leaders already women, this continues our focus on building a balanced and inclusive leadership team.”
A leader with vision and experience
Ms Bradley said she was honoured to step into the role and excited to join a community with strong momentum and ambition.
“Frankston is a city on the rise. You can feel the energy here — from the waterfront to the hospital precinct, the metropolitan activity centre and the new investment landing across its suburbs,”
“I’m looking forward to working closely with the Mayor, Councillors, staff, partners and the community to make sure Frankston grows in a way that’s sustainable, inclusive and true to its identity and strengths.”
During her time at Geelong, Ms Bradley played a key role in delivering major city-shaping initiatives, including the $449 million Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, as well as projects revitalising the city centre and cultural precincts.
She said she sees similar opportunities for transformation in Frankston.
“In Geelong we’ve seen the benefits of strong planning, collaboration and community engagement — and I believe Frankston has enormous potential waiting to be tapped into.”
Steady leadership through transition
Cr Bolam also paid tribute to Interim CEO Cam Arullanantham, who stepped into the position following the departure of Phil Cantillon earlier this year.
“Cam has provided steady hands, calm leadership and unwavering commitment to our community and staff during this period of change,”
“He’s been an outstanding leader and I’d absolutely encourage him to seek future leadership opportunities given all he’s achieved in such a short time.”
When Ms Bradley begins in January, Mr Arullanantham will return to his executive role overseeing major projects — including the $60 million Frankston Basketball and Gymnastics Stadium redevelopment, the largest infrastructure project in the city’s history.
Building on momentum
Frankston City is currently undergoing one of its biggest transformation periods yet, with ongoing investment in health, transport, recreation and housing, as well as new measures to support residents with the rising cost of living.
Cr Bolam said Ms Bradley’s leadership will help carry that momentum forward.
“We have the plan, the partnerships, the progress and the political leadership — now we have the corporate leadership to take Frankston City to the next level.”
