Lachlan Kranz
Lachie joined Huon Valley Council in July 2021 as Director of Infrastructure Services and became Chief Executive Officer in January 2024. Originally from regional south-east Queensland, Lachie now lives on acreage in the Huon Valley with his young family to be closer to family, and to provide his children with the rural upbringing he enjoyed as a child.
With extensive experience in executive and senior management roles across local government, small business, and ASX-listed companies, Lachie brings a progressive, evidence-based approach to leadership. He is dedicated to improving Council services and maintaining the Huon Valley’s unique character as a wonderful place to live, work, learn and play.
Mathew Grimsey
Matt commenced with Huon Valley Council in 1999 and as a Director with Council in December 2008, after several acting stints in the role. Born and bred in the Huon Valley and having worked in local government for more than 25 years, Matt is an expert in all things Huon Valley Council. Lawyer by trade, Matt’s knowledge and understanding of legal and governance is proven.
Patty Johnson
Patty joined Huon Valley Council as a Director in October 2023. With more than 20 years of experience in State Government, she is highly skilled in all aspects of Corporate Services, including finance, people management, information systems, communications and process improvement.
She is a Fellow Certified Practising Accountant (FCPA) and is recognised for her passion and drive to deliver meaningful, sustainable change, achieving proven results that benefit both the Council and the wider community.
Although she does not reside in the valley, Patty grew up on a farm in the Midlands and has a strong affinity for the Huon Valley—its landscape and its people.
Lyle Ground
Lyle joined Huon Valley Council in December 2018 and was appointed Director Community and Place in July 2024 after holding serveral senior leadership roles. With more than 15 years’ experience in local government across two continents, Lyle offers expertise in ecology, strategic and statutory planning, environmental sustainability, and community services management.
His career includes nine years with eThekwini Municipality in South Africa, where he served as Senior Specialist Ecologist, leading large-scale conservation, town planning, and environmental programs.
His diverse skill set, and extensive experience enable him to deliver strategic outcomes that balance environmental, economic and social considerations for the benefit of the community.
Frank Chen
Frank is a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) and a Fellow of the Public Works Engineering Australasia.
Before joining Huon Valley Council in May 2024 as Director Infrastructure and Assets, he was a Project Manager for the $786 million New Bridgewater Bridge Project — the largest transport project in Tasmanian history.
With extensive experience in both State and local government, Frank has been recognised as an emerging leader by the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia and Local Government Professionals Australia.
His expertise in infrastructure management and strong leadership skills enable him to deliver effective asset solutions that meet community needs.