Townsville City Council has selected highly experienced local government leader Mr Joe McCabe as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Announcing his appointment today, Deputy Mayor Paul Jacob said Mr McCabe would bring a wealth of experience in leading and managing local governments, delivery of major projects and a well-demonstrated approach to values-based leadership which will shape the organisation’s culture, engagement, financial sustainability and service delivery.
“I am delighted Council has been able to secure someone of Mr McCabe’s calibre to lead our organisation,” Cr Jacob said.
“A national search campaign resulted in an exceptional applicant list. Ultimately, three candidates were shortlisted and after a rigorous selection process, the panel identified Mr McCabe as the successful candidate.”
Mr McCabe said he was proud to be appointed CEO of Council and looked forward to leading Council’s team of 1,700 to grow Townsville.
“I’m very proud to have the privilege to be appointed as CEO, I’ve been here for five months and experienced the tremendous lifestyle of the city and I’m excited for what the future holds for Townsville,” Mr McCabe said.
“I’ve got a great working relationship with the councillors and understand the challenges for the city.
“We have started working towards some of those challenges, like financial sustainability, jobs for the future, supporting major events and industry, so I’m looking forward to bringing that experience from the last 30-odd years at the Gold Coast to Townsville.
“I’ve hit the ground running over the last five months and really looking forward to continuing on with what we’ve started.”
Cr Jacob said Mr McCabe had been acting in the role of CEO since May 2024, and had gained a deep understanding of Council’s purpose, vision and values.
“Mr McCabe’s early priorities will be focused on shaping the culture and governance of the organisation, ensuring we are delivering our projects and services efficiently and improving customer experiences, in a responsible, financially sustainable way,” Cr Jacob said.
Prior to joining Townsville City Council, Mr McCabe held the Interim CEO role at Alice Springs Town Council, is a current Independent External Member of the Risk and Audit Committee at City of Darwin and had a long, highly successful career spanning over thirty years with the City of Gold Coast including nine years as Chief Operating Officer, which included periods as Acting Chief Executive Officer.
In addition to his extensive local government experience and knowledge, Mr McCabe holds a Bachelor of Business in Public Administration and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Mr McCabe will begin in the Chief Executive Officer role on 21 October 2024, leading Council’s 1,700 strong team.
“We welcome Joe to the team and are confident about the important role he will play in championing our purpose to grow Townsville,” Cr Jacob said.
