Casula Powerhouse director Kiersten Fishburn appointed Liverpool Council’s new acting CEO

Casula Powerhouse director Kiersten Fishburn has been appointed Liverpool Council’s new acting chief executive.

Kiersten Fishburn is Liverpool Council’s new acting chief executive. Picture: Melvyn Knipe

Casula Powerhouse director Kiersten Fishburn has been appointed Liverpool Council’s new acting chief executive.

Ms Fishburn assumes the role from midnight, replacing outgoing acting chief executive Michael Cullen.

She will carry out the chief executive’s duties for up to six months or until a permanent chief executive is appointed.

A working group that includes mayor Wendy Waller and deputy mayor Ali Karnib as well as councillors Peter Harle, Karress Rhodes, Gus Balloot and Mazhar Hadid was established at this month’s council meeting to assess candidates and make recommendations to the council.

Mr Fishburn currently serves as the council’s community and culture director but will step down from tomorrow with an acting director to take her place.

Her appointment also means she will step aside from her duties as Casula Powerhouse director, with Sydney Film Festival marketing manager Craig Donarski contracted to replace Ms Fishburn for the duration of her new role.

Ms Fishburn said she was excited to consolidate Liverpool’s development with projects such as the Bigge Park upgrade and the revitalisation of Macquarie Mall changing the face of the area.

“I’m thrilled that council has faith in me,” Ms Fishburn said.

“I absolutely love being part of the growth and change.”

Her appointment, coupled with the election of a female mayor, reflected a changing culture, she said.

“I really think it says something about how progressive this organisation is,” Ms Fishburn said.