The chief executive of Noosa Council has announced his resignation after 14 months in the role, to become the CEO at Australia’s third largest council.
Scott Waters – who commenced the role in February last year – is leaving Noosa to lead the Moreton Bay Regional Council.
“I am proud of what we’ve achieved,” Mr Waters said. “The first phase of Noosa 2.0 is in place – we have a new corporate plan, our structure realignment is being finalised, a refreshed council brand about to roll out and a leadership program based on renewed organisational values is underway.
“I thank the councillors for the confidence they have shown in me and the staff for their continuous hard work, particularly the executive and leadership teams.
“I am very grateful for having helped play some part in the ongoing success of Noosa Council and set the foundations of success for the future.
“I am genuinely excited at what we are building here in Noosa, but the opportunity to take on such a challenging and significant role for me personally and professionally is the next step in my career and I’m looking forward to commencing with the team at Moreton Bay Regional Council.”
Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart said it was disappointing to lose such a quality, capable and progressive leader.
“Scott has been an agent of change for our organisation and I truly appreciate what he’s been able to implement during his 14-month tenure,” she said.
“It’s certainly a huge loss for our council but I understand that Scott has to make the right decisions for his family and career, and this is a natural progression for a CEO of his calibre.
“The fact Scott was successful in a nationwide recruitment campaign for such a large council is testament to our recruitment process and clearly shows we had the right person in place.
“Over the past year Scott has built a strong momentum of positive change for our council and community and we look forward to this continuing for the incoming CEO.
“Scott has worked closely with myself and councillors to build a solid plan for transformational change and ultimately the foundations for success are in place for the next CEO to pick up and deliver.”
Mr Waters has helped guide council through floods, the largest budget in council’s history and realigned the operations with new values and structure.
He also paid tribute to Cr Stewart.
“The opportunity to work with Mayor Clare Stewart was largely the reason for moving to Noosa, as well as being closer to family in Queensland,” he said.
“Her progressive view for the shire and her strong focus on social justice and fairness has made the role incredibly rewarding.”
Mr Waters’ last day at Noosa Council will be Friday, May 12.
Cr Stewart said infrastructure services director Larry Sengstock would be the acting CEO, and that council would begin the recruitment process for a new CEO immediately.
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