The man who began his career as a trainee and rose to be Northern Beaches Council Chief Executive Officer, Mark Ferguson has welcomed the first generation of 22 Northern Beaches Council trainees at a breakfast.

Mark Ferguson started as a trainee Town Clerk nearly 40 years ago, before rising through the ranks to eventually become Chief Executive Officer.  Mr Ferguson said trainees undergo extensive training and mentoring, and some have an opportunity to go into substantive roles.

“I was very fortunate to get that start and I’m determined to ensure that the current generation also gets an opportunity. We are the biggest employer on the Northern Beaches and that brings great responsibility.

“Traineeships with Council are highly coveted and I am proud to congratulate the new intake and those about to complete their time with us.

“These roles will form a foundation for the trainees’ careers and provide valuable opportunities to learn about local government across the wide range of Council activities,” Mr Ferguson said.

Recent trainees include Ashleigh Sherry, who started in 2008 and in 2015 became Acting Environmental Compliance Manager.

“This role helped me develop skills in areas like strategic management and in a very short space of time I was managing 30 people. I am very grateful that Council has a program like this to help develop skilled and energetic young people,” Ashleigh said.

To find out more about NBC’s traineeships please contact PeopleAndCulture@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au