Experienced government operator on the market after nearly three years
VicRoads chief executive John Merritt will depart the roads authority on December 20.
Appointed in April 2014, Merritt has led a program of substantial organisational change while overseeing the launch of the biggest capital works program VicRoads has ever undertaken, according to the Victorian government authority.
“When I arrived the task was to transform the business and ready it to meet the needs of Victorians during a period of unprecedented population growth,” Merritt says.
“We now have the biggest capital works program in our history – more than double what it was in 2014 – and we’re working hard to deliver these critical projects.
“We have a registration and licensing area that is achieving its best ever service results and is ready to deliver short-term registration for Victorians in the new year.
“VicRoads is also more responsive and accountable now. Reform is a long journey but we’re heading in the right direction. While we don’t get it right every time, we’re committed to the job and we do play a critical role in the community.
“So it feels like the right time to move on. It’s been a wonderful experience to lead this organisation and I’m grateful for the fantastic support I have received.”
State roads minister Luke Donnellan says Merritt had made a lasting contribution in running Victoria’s road network.
“John Merritt has been a terrific leader of VicRoads and I’d like to thank him for his service,” Donnellan adds.
“Our government is investing more in roads and transport infrastructure than ever before, and he’s been up for the challenge of delivering it.
“He’s also been tireless in modernising the agency and making sure it delivers the daily services needed by road users across the state.”
Before his VicRoads role, Merritt served as the CEO of the Environmental Protection Authority, the executive director at WorkSafe and the CEO of the National Safety Council.
Merritt said he was looking forward to spending some time with his wife and children before deciding on his next move.