Qld politics: Julian Simmonds tipped to replace EDQ boss

The boss of a government body has exited just 10 months into the job, amid reports of discord with the new LNP administration.

Debbie McNamara has quit as CEO of Economic Development Queensland

Economic Development Queensland CEO Debbie McNamara has exited the role after just 10 months, with a former federal Liberal National MP poised to replace her.

The Courier-Mail can reveal Ms McNamara left last week despite only being appointed CEO in July.

One source said the decision to separate was mutual, while another said her departure centred around disagreements with the new state government following its October election win.

It is understood former federal MP Julian Simmonds is poised to relace Ms McNamara, however he could not be reached for comment.

Choosing a new CEO will be the responsibility of the EDQ board.

Its recommendation is expected to be put to State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie.

Former Liberal National federal MP Julian Simmonds is tipped to replace Ms McNamara.

Before being appointed CEO Ms McNamara was EDQ general manager for three years.

Any reference to Ms McNamara had been scraped from Economic Development Queensland’s website by Monday, with a spokeswoman confirming her departure.

“Debbie McNamara advised last week of her intention to leave Economic Development Queensland,” she said.

“EDQ recognises Ms McNamara’s transformative leadership and significant contributions to the state of Queensland during her three-and-a-half-years as general manager and then chief executive officer of EDQ, during a pivotal time in its evolution.”

Governance and legal executive director Sam Adams is acting CEO until further notice.

EDQ is the government’s planning and property development agency with far-reaching powers to facilitate investment.

State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie

Originally published as Qld politics: Julian Simmonds tipped to replace EDQ boss