New Chief Executive among leadership appointments announced for Parks Victoria

New leadership appointments have been announced for Parks Victoria to ensure that the state's public land remains open and accessible for all Victorians to enjoy.

Lee Miezis has been named as the new Chief Executive of Parks Victoria bringing new leadership and experience to the role as more Victorians are getting out to enjoy the great outdoors.

Miezis was previously the Chief Executive of Environment Protection Authority Victoria and has held senior executive roles across Government including the inaugural Chief Executive of Bushfire Recovery Victoria (now Emergency Recovery Victoria) and as a Deputy Secretary in the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

A resident of regional Victoria and having started his career in forest management, Miezis brings a good appreciation of the practical challenges and opportunities that Victoria's great outdoors offers.

As Chief Executive, Miezis will oversee the management of Victoria's diverse network of parks and reserves, ensuring they remain accessible and enjoyable for all visitors while protecting the states natural environment.

The Parks Victoria Board will also move in a new direction, with several new appointments to the Board. The new incoming Chair, Daniel Miller will be joined by Professor Kate Auty, Graeme (Gus) Dear, Trent Nelson and Chris Newton, while Lisa Marty and Gill Sparkes AM will remain as Board Members.

The new Board brings a raft of skills and experience aligned to the new vision for Parks Victoria, including across community engagement, strategic governance, Traditional Owner engagement and financial management.

Parks Victoria's estate attracts more than 100 million visits every year and the agency is focused on providing accessible and enjoyable experiences while protecting environmental and cultural values.

Victorian Minister for the Environment Steve Dimopoulos enthused "we are thrilled to welcome Lee Miezis to Parks Victoria, his leadership and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to improve access and experiences to Victoria's great outdoors.

"I want to thank the outgoing CEO, board chair and members for their commitment and dedication in overseeing a range of improvements and key projects across Parks Victoria during their tenure, and I look forward to working with the new members to ensure Parks Victoria meets the needs of all Victorians."

Miezis added "I look forward to working with the team to ensure access to our beautiful, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the benefits of the great outdoors."

Environment Protection Authority Victoria congratulated Miezis on his new appointment with EPA Chair, Professor Kate Auty, praising Miezis' leadership and skill over a period of growth for the Authority.

Auty shared "we deeply appreciate his clear leadership and significant skill. Lee's time at EPA has been remarkable. His commitment to our people and his capacity for understanding the needs of the community and environment are unparalleled.”

Professor Auty also announced Joss Crawford, current Executive Director for Operations, will stand in as acting Chief Executive for Environment Protection Authority Victoria during the search for a replacement, which will commence immediately.

Crawford has deep regulatory experience across multiple industries both abroad and in Victoria, over the past 25 years.