Donnybrook Balingup council appoint former North Queensland Shire deputy CEO as head of executive

The Shire of Donnybrook has appointed Nicholas O’Connor as its chief executive officer for the next five years, beginning in October. Mr O’Connor has been the director of corporate and community services as well as the deputy chief executive officer at the North Queensland Shire of Burdekin since 2018. His appointment ends an eight-month search for a replacement following Ben Rose leaving the role in November after seven years to take on the top job at the Shire of Manjimup. Mr O’Connor said he was excited for the new role. “I am very much looking forward to taking up the CEO role at the Shire of Donnybrook Balingup,” he said. “I have a genuine passion for working in regional and rural communities and I am committed to forging a strong working relationship with Shire president MacCarthy, all councillors, Shire staff, and importantly, the residents and ratepayers across the region.” Before his role in North Queensland Mr O’Connor worked for three years at the Wingecarribee Shire Council situated 90 minutes south of Sydney. Ms MacCarthy said Mr O’Connor was the right fit for the role. “This is an exciting opportunity for the Shire of Donnybrook Balingup. I believe Mr O’Connor will excel in the role, and I wish him the very best success,” she said. Since the departure of Mr Rose in November, the Shire has had two temporary bosses with Garry Hunt the first to take on the caretaker position until the end of June, with Tim Clynch taking over and set to remain in the job until October 7.