Simone Saunders named new CEO of Darwin Council

After sifting through a field of more than 50 candidates Darwin Council has named its first ever female chief executive.

AFTER sifting through a field of more than 50 candidates Darwin Council have named their new chief executive.

Simone Saunders, who has been the interim CEO since Scott Waters’ departure in March, will become the first female to officially lead the Darwin council.

Ms Saunders has a strong background in commercial and corporate business joining council as the chief financial officer in 2020.

Before that she served in several senior roles with Darwin-based airline Airnorth, including four years as chief executive.

New Darwin Council chief executive Simone Saunders with Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis. Picture: Nathaniel Chambers

The new chief executive has lived in Darwin with her husband since 2004, originally planning to move on to Perth, but instead falling for the Top End.

“I took a casual job, which was only supposed to last for a month, and I’m still here,” she said.

“I’m really looking forward to ensuring council and its 370 staff operates as a progressive community-focused organisation which delivers for the people of Darwin.

“This role provides a unique opportunity to help shape the future of the city and drive transformational change in the delivery of council services.”

Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis credited Ms Saunders as being the perfect fit for the role.

“Simone understands local government and she has the leadership experience and the local knowledge to make an outstanding contribution as our next CEO,” Mr Vatskalis said.

“In her five months as interim CEO, Simone has shown she is an executive with well-developed leadership skills, excellent judgment and strength of character.

“She has also shown she can work closely with the elected members to deliver their vision, which is vital in this role.”