Mayor’s CEO selection process repealed, new recruiter ‘ensures transparency and independence’

Mayor Amy Eden has made a key decision in the search for council’s permanent CEO in a stunning concession from the embattled leader who has faced conflict of interest questions throughout her tumultuous six-month tenure.

Cairns Regional Council Mayor Amy Eden and her former campaign adviser, John Andrejic during an ordinary Council meeting on June 5, 2024. Mr Andrejic is currently Cairns Regional Council’s interim CEO.

Cairns Regional Council mayor Amy Eden will not chair the selection process to find the city’s next CEO in a stunning concession from the embattled leader who has faced conflict of interest questions throughout her tumultuous six-month tenure.

National recruitment agency Davidson has been appointed to lead the talent search with listings for the chief executive role – which will pay the successful applicant at least $417,420 per year – going out last week.

Councillors unanimously voted to dissolve the four-person selection panel, chaired by Ms Eden, during a closed session last month despite the mayor previously insisting that a recruiter wouldn’t be required.

Cairns Regional Council Division One councillor Brett Moller has consistently challenged the mayor regarding the selection process to name the council’s next CEO. Picture: Brendan Radke

In May, the mayor fought for the right to hand-pick the council’s next top boss despite facing strong resistance from councillors Brett Moller, Rhonda Coghlan, Kristy Vallely and Rob Pyne.

She would later recommend her former campaign adviser, John Andrejic, as interim CEO despite councillors questioning the “integrity and ethics” of the process.

Mr Andrejic has served in the role since June.

The revised process addressed councillors’ longstanding concerns, a council spokesman said.

“Appointing a recruitment company to conduct a nationwide talent search for the council’s new CEO ensures transparency and independence of the process, while maintaining the confidentiality of all applicants,” the spokesman said.

“Council offered the opportunity by expressions of interest allowing local and national companies to submit a proposal.

“Under the new process, all councillors will have a greater opportunity to take part in formal interviews of the short-listed CEO candidates.”

In a letter to candidates included in Davidson’s recruitment package, Ms Eden said a fiscally prudent, proven performer would be looked upon favourably.

“During my campaign I pledged to foster transparency, engagement, and accountability, and that this council would be more inclusive, collaborative, and open, and uphold the highest standards of integrity,” she said.

“These are non-negotiable principles that will form the foundation of a council focused on getting the basics right – responsible financial management and cost-effective delivery of essential services.”

Cairns Regional Council Mayor Amy Eden and CEO John Andrejic during the ordinary Council meeting on June 5th. Picture Emily Barker.

The mayor, who walked out of a press conference rather than answer a question related to Mr Andrejic’s appointment in June, has faced criticism for the council’s recent spending, including on a $30,000 workshop for councillors held at a five-star “adults only” resort, signed off on by Mr Andrejic.

Recruiter Peak Services previously assisted with the interim CEO appointment process.

It is unknown whether Mr Andrejic will apply for the role.

Former CEO Mica Martin resigned in April — just two weeks after the mayor was sworn in as leader.

Originally published as Mayor’s CEO selection process repealed, new recruiter ‘ensures transparency and independence’