Maroochydore CBD development: SunCentral appoints new chief executive

An experienced Sunshine Coast businesswoman has been appointed as the new chief executive of a council-funded Maroochydore CBD development company.

The new boss for Sunshine Coast Council’s development company SunCentral has been revealed as experienced businesswoman Amanda Yeates.

SunCentral Maroochydore chair Morgan Parker announced Ms Yeates’ appointment on Friday, June 10, to replace former chief executive officer John Knaggs.

The council-owned company was set up in 2015 to kick off development at the Maroochydore CBD and is funded by the council at a cost of about $2m a year.

Annual operating expenses show the company has cost ratepayers about $13.5m over the past seven years, including the more than $2m set aside for costs for 2021-22.

Amanda Yeates has been appointed new chief executive of Suncentral to help oversee future development at the Maroochydore CBD.

Ms Yeates is the deputy director general at Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads where she manages the department’s $5bn annual capital works program and more than 3500 staff.

Mr Parker said Ms Yeates was an outstanding business leader, strategist and stakeholder manager.

SunCentral continues to play a role in the Maroochydore CBD following Walker Corporation taking on exclusive development rights in November, 2021.

A council review, initiated after the Walker deal was signed, recommended SunCentral continue with an “independent management role” and to represent council’s interest.

SunCentral CEO John Knaggs at the Maroochydore City Centre for the announcement of the development agreement between Sunshine Coast Council and Walker Corporation.

Mr Parker said the SunCentral board was delighted with the quality of applicants for the role to steer “one of Australia’s most significant urban master developments”.

“Amanda is incredibly impressive and highly regarded across government, industry and community groups. Her capabilities shone through in what was a very competitive recruitment process,” he said.

“Amanda is also a Sunshine Coast local so she has seen first-hand the remarkable progress the City Centre has made over the last few years. She is inherently passionate about the future of the region and is determined to create a lasting legacy for future generations.”

Ms Yeates will start in July.