'New Political Governance' in Queensland Local Government? Evidence from the Separation of CEOs 2011-15

In the current Queensland Local Government term some 62 CEOs have separated from the 77 councils in that state. While turnover in executive positions is not new this is regarded as an abnormally high level of separation driven... [ view full abstract ]

In the current Queensland Local Government term some 62 CEOs have separated from the 77 councils in that state. While turnover in executive positions is not new this is regarded as an abnormally high level of separation driven primarily by CEOs leaving before the end of their contract renewal period. In 2014 the Local Government Association of Queensland commissioned Martin to interview ex CEOs and the mayors from the councils they had left. This high level of turnover raises the question of the CEO being able to act, or being seen to act, in a bi-partisan manner when it comes to advising and supporting the mayor and councillors. In this paper we classify the type of CEO separation and outline the reasons for separation and the processes undertaken as part of their departure. We conclude with a set of recommendations that enable mayors and councillors to work with CEOs and senior staff such that they provide bipartisan support for effective local governance.