Ipswich begins recruitment for new Chief Executive Officer
15 July 2021
Ipswich City Council has marked the beginning of a new era as it officially commences its search for a new Chief Executive Officer.
Mayor Teresa Harding said council was looking for an experienced leader who can put council’s past behind them and create a bright future for the City of Ipswich.
“This is an important and critical step forward for our city as we commence the search for the next CEO of Ipswich City Council,” said Mayor Harding.
“It’s no secret that council has had a tumultuous past, a new CEO will be an integral player in shaping a new future for the people of Ipswich.
“As Queensland’s fastest growing city, Ipswich has a strong and positive future ahead. We’re looking for someone who can harness the potential our city has to offer.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Ipswich and we are confident we will find the right person to lead one of Queensland’s biggest councils.”
Mayor Harding said the recruitment campaign will run for the next three weeks, with advertising featured across a number of channels, including Seek and LinkedIn.
“A recruitment panel has been appointed by council to ensure a thorough and rigorous process is undertaken,” Mayor Harding said.
“This panel includes myself, Division 3 Councillors Andrew Fechner and Marnie Doyle, Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen, and an independent panel member, the Hon. Rachel Nolan.
“Ms Nolan is a former Member for Ipswich, a local resident and is well respected throughout the community. We are honoured to have Rachel working with us to ensure we find the right candidate.
“This is an ideal time for an experienced leader to join Ipswich City Council and play their role in shaping one of Queensland’s most vibrant and growing cities.”
This recruitment process will seek to find the first CEO to be appointed since council returned to elected representation in March 2020. The final appointment will be a decision of full council.
In February 2019, David Farmer was appointed CEO of Ipswich City Council, while still under administration. Mr Farmer resigned in March 2021 after two years to accept the position of CEO at Central Coast Council in New South Wales.
Acting CEO Sonia Cooper, appointed in March 2021, will continue in the role until a candidate is appointed.
Specialist recruitment company Davidson has been selected to facilitate the recruitment process, which is anticipated to take approximately two months to complete.