Experienced local government administrator John Baker is the new CEO of the Sunshine Coast Council.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said Mr Baker, who will start on December 16, brought extensive leadership experience from both the United Kingdom and Australia.
“He demonstrates values-based, collaborative leadership (and) values strong community engagement and prioritises excellent service delivery,” Mayor Natoli said.
She said Mr Baker had been the CEO at Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, the fifth largest local government area in Victoria, since 2018 and moved from the UK 10 years ago.
In that time and prior to commencing with Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, he worked across public, private and not-for-profit environments including as lead partner for Local Government Practice with Ernst & Young and KPMG.
“Council was particularly impressed with Mr Baker’s solid track record in stakeholder management, especially in politically complex environments, alongside strong financial management.
“His commitment to delivering community-centred outcomes, while appreciating the importance of sustainability and liveability, was valued,” Mayor Natoli said.
She said Mr Baker was responsible for large transformation initiatives in the public sector and demonstrated a strong understanding of regional growth and development.
“His work on major infrastructure projects and capital program restructuring is relevant to the Sunshine Coast’s ambitions for regional development and economic resilience.”
Mayor Natoli said his early priorities would be centred on learning about the Sunshine Coast culture and landscape, and continuing to build and shape the organisation “while ensuring our community is totally engaged in how we are delivering our projects and services”.
Mr Baker said the Sunshine Coast’s unique blend of natural beauty and thriving communities made it an exceptional place to live and work.
“I look forward to working with the Council, staff and community to continue building on this wonderful region’s success.”
