New CEO for Wakefield

CEO of Kingston District Council, Andrew MacDonald, will head north to take the helm at Wakefield Regional Council.

CEO of Kingston District Council, Andrew MacDonald, will head north to take the helm at Wakefield Regional Council.

Wakefield Mayor Rodney Reid said the appointment – decided at a special meeting of Council on Monday night – would bring fresh energy and a real focus on ‘people’.

“During his time at Kingston, Andrew has created a high performing and respected organisation with a strong collaborative culture and effective workforce,” Mayor Reid said.

“Andrew showed himself to be a real ‘people person’ – a passionate leader who engages effectively with all stakeholders, including politicians, Elected Members, key stakeholders and the wider community.  

“Council was exceptionally impressed by Andrew’s knowledge of our region and our challenges and opportunities, as well as his commitment to become part of the Wakefield community.

“Andrew’s knowledge of, and experience in, driving economic development and tourism opportunities, while ensuring good financial outcomes for Council, really impressed the selection panel, which was made up of all Council Members. “We were also pleased with his demonstrated commitment to people and encouraging and motivating employees and communities.”

Andrew’s work history in summary:

• May 2014 – Current: CEO Kingston District Council
• June 2012 – May 2014: General Manager – Commercial Business, Cypress Lakes Group, Gold Coast, Queensland
• Nov 2009 – May 2012: Portfolio Manager – Community Recreation & Facilities, Adelaide City Council
• July 2004 – Nov 2009: Manager – Commercial Services, Adelaide City Council
• Oct 2001 – June 2004: Manager – Noarlunga Leisure Centre, City of Onkaparinga

Andrew’s start date is to be confirmed and more details will be provided in the coming days.

Wakefield’s Acting CEO Steven Griffiths finishes his tenure with Council this Friday (22 March) and a new Acting CEO will be in place until Andrew starts: Mark McShane, the recently retired CEO of the City of Mount Gambier will take up the acting role.

“I wholeheartedly thank Steven for the work he has undertaken in recent weeks and wish him well in his new role,” Mayor Reid said. “I’d also like to thank the Wakefield staff and management team for their efforts and know they will work with Mark to keep things moving in the right direction in the coming weeks, and with Andrew as he takes on the CEO role.”