Northern Beaches Council has announced the appointment of Mr Scott Phillips as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said Mr Phillips was appointed following an extensive and competitive national search.
“We are delighted to welcome Mr Scott Phillips as the new CEO. His experience in local government is unparalleled as he was Chief Executive of the industry sector. With his insight and understanding, Mr Phillips will support our Council in navigating the complex challenges and opportunities ahead,” Mayor Heins said.
“He has a proven track record in leading high performing organisations through a strong commitment to working collaboratively and focusing on continuous improvement.”
Mr Phillips has 30 years of experience in the local and state government sectors. He is leaving the role of Chief Executive of Local Government NSW and previously, was general manager at Sutherland and Hornsby Shire councils. He has also held several executive roles at state and local levels in the planning profession and serves on several industry boards, ministerial advisory committees, and panels.
Mr Phillips said he is honoured to join Northern Beaches Council and is looking forward to working with the Mayor, Councillors, staff and serving the local community.
“I am passionate about working in local government as I believe councils are best placed to serve the community,” Mr Phillips said.
“This is a great opportunity to continue building on the organisation’s solid foundations and further promoting its strong partnership with the Northern Beaches community.
“I believe in delivering the best value service to the community and exceptional customer experience, backed by an effective and highly sustainable organisation.
“I look forward to working with the staff and continuing to grow the organisation’s strongculture, good governance and solid financial stewardship.”
Local Government NSW President Darriea Turley AM said that while it was always sad to lose such a great Chief Executive, she was delighted that Mr Phillips would remain within the local government sector.
“On behalf of both the Board and LGNSW staff, we wish him every success at Northern Beaches Council,” Ms Turley said.
“He leaves some big shoes to fill – both figuratively and literally – so our recruitment process to replace him with an equally great Chief Executive is underway.”
Mr Phillips will join Northern Beaches Council from 24 July 2023 under a 5 year contract.
The new hire was recruited though executive search agency Derwent Search, with a recruitment panel comprising of six councillors reviewing the shortlisted applicants and conducting interviews.
Council did not wish to disclose the agreed salary, but it will be made available in annual reports each year. His predecessor was on about half a million a year.
Interim CEO Louise Kerr will return to her substantive role as Director Place and Planning upon commencement of the new CEO.
You can view details as per the final vote on the candidate by council here: https://northernbeaches.infocouncil.biz/Open/2023/06/OC_06062023_MIN_2334_EXTRA.PDF
