Noosa Shire Council appoints Scott Waters as new CEO

An experienced local government chief executive with expertise in tourism and economic development beat almost 90 applicants to become Noosa Council’s new CEO.

An experienced local government chief executive is expected to bring a “breath of fresh air” as well as economic development knowledge to Noosa Shire Council.

City of Darwin CEO Scott Waters was chosen out of 87 applicants to lead Noosa Council following Brett de Chastel’s retirement.

Mayor Clare Stewart said Mr Waters would bring significant local government and financial experience as well as expertise in economic development, aviation and tourism.

“He will bring a fresh, new approach … and be a breath of fresh air for this community and organisation,” she said.

The salary for the council’s CEO is between $300,000 and $400,000.

Mr Waters will take on the job from late February as the council recruits for several key positions.

Scott Waters pictured in 2018 when he accepted the role as the CEO of the City of Darwin Council. Picture: Keri Megelus

Director of corporate services Michael Shave left the council in September.

Earlier this year Ms Stewart said once all of the positions were filled she wanted an independent organisation to complete a “health check” on the council.

Of the 24 managers, two retired this year and two more left to take up other opportunities.

Ms Stewart said the new CEO had a great energy, passion and drive.

She said the selection panel – herself, deputy mayor Frank Wilkie and independent members including former CEO Bruce Davidson and Rhyll Gardner – was unanimous in the decision.

Recruitment firm Davidson led the hiring process.

“We are very fortunate to find such a capable, experienced and dynamic leader who will guide council and its staff as we continue to thrive in the wake of the pandemic and deliver on our strategic vision for the shire,” Ms Stewart said.

The Mackay born Mr Waters has been Darwin’s chief executive for three years and was previously chief executive at Whitsunday Regional Council.

He also guided the Whitsunday Airport for several years and was General Manager Regional Development and Aviation for Rockhampton Regional Council.

He’s currently completing a Master of Business Administration.

“It is an exciting challenge to join Noosa Council and I look forward to using my experience in tourism, economic development and leadership to serve council and the community to continue to deliver and enhance our core services and functions,” Mr Waters said.

“I’m very focused on delivery, performance and outcomes.

“Noosa Council is very much a leader in many areas of local government, so I want us to build on that with the staff and look to improve what we do for the community and local business,” he said.