NT energy boss revealed as new council CEO
He will take helm of Mackay Regional Council next week after councillors unanimously endorsed him.
Mackay
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FORMER energy boss Michael Thomson will take the helm of Mackay Regional Council.
His appointment at the CEO was confirmed today at the council's ordinary meeting where it unanimously endorsed.
In his last role Mr Thomson spent four years as the CEO of the Northern Territory's Power and Water Corporation.
He was responsible for electricity generation, distribution and water and gas services across the territory and serviced a 1.4 million sqkm area.
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Mr Thomson said he was excited to step into the new role and make a "tangible difference" to the Mackay community.
"I have an affinity with working and living in regional areas," he said.
The position will be Mr Thomson's first local government job.
Mayor Greg Williamson said he was selected from a list of credentialed candidates who faced a rigorous process that included presenting to the full council.
Cr Williamson said two local residents had made it to the shortlist of nine applicants, but none were considered in the final round of contenders.
He said the former Territorian would find it easy to settle into Mackay, after managing a similar sized staff in his previous role.
"The NT is a fairly laid-back as a state," he said.
"(But) I think it will go very well."
"It s fantastic to have him on-board, bringing a wealth of experience to his new challenge," he said.
Former CEO Craig Doyle spent more than four years in the role but will step down later this week after handing over to Mr Thomson.
In the final moments of today's meeting, councillors expressed an emotional farewell to outgoing CEO Craig Doyle.
Mayor Greg Williamson, who said he and Mr Doyle would often burst into each other's offices multiple times a day, said he would miss their working relationship.
"The last four and a half years have been a wonderful journey," Cr Williamson said.
He said Mr Doyle was always able to respectfully deal with any of the problems residents came to council with, from leaking taps to loud roosters and potholes.
"He's not afraid to go out in the community and say what needs to be said," Cr Williamson said.
"(But) the respect is what you get from his leadership style."
With Mr Doyle to take on a role in a Brisbane-based resource industry start-up, Cr Williamson said he would likely pop back to Mackay often.
Cr Williamson said it was rare a departing CEO had the opportunity to help with the transition to their successor.
Mr Thomson will begin work on Monday, August 17.
Mr Doyle will finish his duties with the council this week.
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