Mackay Regional Council CEO Scott Owen resigns

Less than a week after going on leave following allegations councillors discussed his future in an off-site meeting, Mackay council CEO Scott Owen has resigned.

Mackay Regional Council CEO Scott Owen has resigned. Picture: Contributed

Mackay Regional Council CEO Scott Owen has tendered his resignation.

First hired in 2022, it comes less than a week after he went on leave following allegations councillors met off-site at George Christensen’s home and discussed his future, first revealed by this masthead.
A special meeting of council on Monday delegated authority to Mayor Greg Williamson to accept the CEO’s resignation.

Mr Owen said it had been an “absolute privilege” to lead the organisation and work alongside such dedicated and talented staff.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and have no doubt that council will continue on the journey that is now well under way,’’ he said.

“I wish all staff the greatest of success.”

Scott Owen and Heath Paton at Official opening of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails Sunday 21 April 2024. Picture: Michaela Harlow

Mayor Williamson said Mr Owen had achieved a lot.

“Scott joined council in November 2022 and since then has driven major transformational change,’’ he said.

“He delivered a major organisational restructure aimed at cutting red tape, achieving efficiencies and improving the delivery of services to our community.

“He leaves council with a major focus on continuous improvement, innovation and striving to do business better, faster and more efficient.

“We thank Scott for his hard work over the past two years and wish him well with his future endeavours.”

Mayor Williamson said Mr Owen’s resignation was effective immediately but assured the community it was “business as usual” at council.

“Council will begin recruiting for a new CEO immediately.”

Executive Officer David McKendry is Acting CEO in the interim.

Councillor Peter Sheedy said Mackay has a “bright future” ahead of it.

Councillor Martin Bella said he “would have done anything” to see him stay.

“He’s made some incredible changes,” Mr Bella said.

“A lot of these things take time and we’re at pretty much a critical juncture.

“I don’t know what to think.

“We find ourselves in a situation that is not of my choosing.

“This is probably my worst day in council seeing someone of that quality slip away.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese opened the Riverside Revitalisation Project with ALP Senator for Queensland Nita Green, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson and Mackay Regional Council CEO Scott Owen in April, 2024. Picture: Supplied

Deputy mayor Karen May said it was “unfortunate” Mr Owen tendered his resignation.

“Scott has played an integral role in transforming our council and he and the leadership team have worked hard on creating efficiency within the organisation,” Ms May said.

“ I have enjoyed working with Scott over the past 2 1/2 years and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”

On February 13, the Daily Mercury asked each member of council whether they attended the alleged off-site, unsanctioned council meeting where Mr Owen’s future was discussed.
Mr Sheedy called the allegation the CEO was discussed a lot of “hot air”, but confirmed councillors had an “informal gathering” at Mr Christensen’s home.

“Some of us have a good relationship with each other, there may have been a catch up at George Christensen’s place but certainly not a meeting,” he said.

Councillor Nathenea MacRae said it was normal for councillors to meet outside of council, and said “no comment” as to whether they met at Mr Christensen’s home or discussed the CEO.

Mr Christensen denied there was any “improper” or “off-site unsanctioned council meeting” which had occurred.

“Councillors regularly meet on an informal basis to discuss all sorts of matters affecting the community and the council,” he said.

“This is normal.”

Only Mr Bella and Ms May responded on the record to say they did not attend.