Burnside Council CEO Chris Cowley to take up top job at Gawler Council

Burnside Council’s CEO has revealed his next move, after announcing his resignation from the prestigious job last week.

Chris Cowley has been named Gawler Council’s new CEO.

Burnside Council’s CEO will lead a council in Adelaide’s north, after stepping down as head of one of Adelaide’s wealthiest councils.

Chris Cowley announced last week he was resigning as Burnside’s CEO – and this week, Gawler Council said Mr Cowley would start as its CEO from mid-November.

Mr Cowley – the tattooed, Harley Davidson-riding martial arts expert – moved to Burnside in 2020 from Whyalla Council and worked at numerous councils before that.

He said the decision to leave Burnside was “one of the hardest” he’d had to make.

Gawler Mayor Karen Redman said Mr Cowley brought more than 20 years of experience to Gawler, had demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision and understood the challenges facing the area.

According to council documents, the move comes with a slight pay cut of about $2000 a year to a package of 280,078.

In a statement, the council said the decision came after an “extensive and rigorous selection process”.

It said Mr Cowley had shared his commitment to the local community and was ready to work with councillors and staff to deliver the community plan.

“On behalf of the council members, I am thrilled to welcome Chris Cowley as our new CEO,” Ms Redman said.

“Chris’s innovative approach and proven dedication to local government, both at metropolitan and regional councils, makes him the ideal leader to guide our council as we continue to strive for growth, and financial sustainability, while enhancing community wellbeing for our community.”

“Chris has a clear vision for our future, with extensive experience which will be invaluable as we work together to achieve our strategic goals.

“I, along with all councillors, look forward to his leadership and the positive impact it will have on our community.”

Ms Redman thanked interim CEO Andrew Goodsell, saying his guidance and commitment had been invaluable in maintaining stability and continuity.

Mr Cowley will start work at Gawler Council on November 18.

Originally published as Burnside Council CEO Chris Cowley to take up top job at Gawler Council