Launceston Council announces former Port Augusta mayor Sam Johnson as new chief executive

The Northern council has picked their man to replace Michael Stretton, who left to take up the top job at the City of Hobart Council in February. Meet Sam Johnson.

Former Port Augusta mayor Sam Johnson is Launceston council’s new chief executive officer. Picture: Dylan Coker

Former mayor of Port Augusta City Council Sam Johnson has been appointed as Launceston council’s new chief executive.

He will fill the shoes of Michael Stretton who left the Northern council in February to take up the post of chief executive at the Hobart council.

Launceston mayor Matthew Garwood said the new chief was appointed after an extensive national and international recruitment process conducted over the past four months.

“We attracted a very large field of close to 40 high-quality candidates but despite tough competition Sam impressed the councillor team with his visionary and high-energy approach, along with his obvious passion and drive for the Launceston community,” Mr Garwood said.

“Sam has multi sector experience, having worked earlier in his career in senior roles with ANZ along with five years as a very young Mayor at Port Augusta City Council.”

Mr Johnson is the outgoing CEO at the District Council of Mount Remarkable in South Australia having been in the role since 2020.

He was awarded an OAM for services to the local government sector in 2021.

The new chief will be moving from South Australia in the coming months with his wife and three young boys.

He is expected to take up the new post in July.

Mr Johnson was full of praise for the city of Launceston.

“I am particularly looking forward to building new relationships with the wonderful staff and community members alike,” Mr Johnson said.

“I want to ensure that our teams have the resources to do their job effectively and to support their professional goals, aspirations, and growth whilst working towards providing the very best service levels to the community.

“In this role, I will get out and about in order to meet as many community organisations and members as I can, as well as advocating strongly for the City and region into the future.”

He said he was eager to hear from the community on how to improve services and processes.

“On a personal level, I am really looking forward to both working and living in this special place with my family and joining such a vibrant and incredible community.”