Livingstone Shire Council appoints new CEO

A Central Queensland council has announced two key leadership role appointments – a new CEO and a General Manager of Communities.

New Livingstone Shire Council chief executive officer Terry Dodds.

Livingstone Shire Council has announced its new chief executive officer four months after the resignation announcement of its previous CEO, Cale Dendle.

Mr Dendle had worked at the council for 3.5 years before announcing he was moving onto Isaac Regional Council in the next financial year.

Livingstone Shire CEO Cale Dendle. PIC: Contributed

Alastair Dawson was the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Livingstone Shire Council from July 15.

Livingstone council on Wednesday announced the appointment of Terry Dodds PSM as the new CEO.

According to the council statement, Mr Dodds is an award-winning leader with more than 30 years of experience in local government, having served as CEO for both Tenterfield Shire Council and Murray River Council.

His appointment was confirmed unanimously at a recent council meeting.

Mayor Adam Belot highlighted Mr Dodds’ leadership skills in guiding organisations through economic change and crisis management, including bushfires, cyclones, drought, and water supply contamination.

“Council sought an experienced CEO who could lead us through a pivotal time of change for the region,” he said.

“We need a leader who can help secure a sustainable future for the shire, and Mr Dodds has demonstrated significant expertise in this area, both inside local government and in the private sector.

“We have embarked on a period of sustained growth, and wanted to ensure that our next CEO would steer us towards becoming a high-performing, customer-centric organisation.”

Adam Belot LSC

Mr Dodds, who was awarded the Public Service Medal in 2023 for exemplary leadership during crises and improving organisational culture, was also recognised by the NSW parliament for his contributions to local government.

“I am honoured to be joining Livingstone Shire Council and am eager to bring my experience and passion for community-focused leadership to this vibrant region,” Mr Dodds said.

“I look forward to working closely with the council team and community to drive sustainable growth and positive outcomes.”

Mr Belot said the council looked forward to welcoming Mr Dodds to the team in mid-November when he relocated from southern NSW.

“I’d also like to thank interim CEO Alastair Dawson for his leadership over the past few months,” he said.

“His contributions have been invaluable during this transition.”

The council will also be welcoming Katrina Paterson as the new General Manager of Communities in late November.

Ms Paterson has extensive experience in strategic planning, economic consulting, and community engagement across Australia and the UK, the statement explained.

She previously served as Economic Development and Events Manager at Moreton Bay Regional Council and as a Planning and Development Consultant at Economy.id Consulting, managing a portfolio of more than 150 councils.