Chief Executive Officer | Flinders Shire Council

• Drive growth through infrastructure, housing, and economic partnerships.
• Inspire pride by restoring operational excellence and cultural strength.
• Circa $250K + Super + Car + Accommodation + Relocation Assistance

Lead with Purpose | Shape your Career | Ensure the future of a resilient regional community.

A Role of Impact

Flinders Shire Council is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to guide one of North Queensland’s most dynamic rural communities. The position is located in Hughenden which is located above the Great Artesian Basin and is the business and commercial centre of the Flinders Shire. Hughenden is also located on the Overlanders Way (Flinders Highway) that is a 1550 kilometre driving adventure across the breadth of Queensland and into the Northern Territory linking the wonders of the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef to the rugged Aussie Outback.

With major projects like CopperString and state-backed infrastructure investment underway, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead a council at the heart of regional transformation. You will be the conduit between elected members, staff, and the community - ensuring decisions translate into tangible outcomes that strengthen resilience and prosperity.

For more about the region, please click Visit Hughenden

Community at the Core

This is not a FIFO role. As CEO, you will embed yourself in a welcoming, close-knit community of 1,500 residents who value connection, safety, and lifestyle. From vibrant festivals to world-class fossil sites and national parks, Flinders Shire offers a unique blend of culture and natural beauty. Your leadership will directly influence the delivery of essential services, housing, and infrastructure that underpin everyday life.

A Candidate Briefing Document can be accessed HERE

A Legacy of Leadership

Council has reset its vision and is ready for disciplined, hands-on leadership. With strong financial foundations and community support, the CEO will focus on operational pride, capability building, and strategic partnerships. This is your chance to leave a lasting legacy - driving growth, fostering innovation, and ensuring Flinders Shire thrives as a place of discovery, opportunity, economic prosperity, and lifestyle.

This is an exciting time to be the CEO in a council with one of the highest performing economic development outcomes in the State, with a number of projects coming online which will assure the future of the region.

Candidates are encouraged to apply who can demonstrate strong leadership and financial acumen in delivering tangible outcomes n Local, State or Federal Government and/or NGOs. Importantly, you will be renowned for your passion and drive to succeed and for your boundless energy, enthusiasm, and natural ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders.

Peak Services is working in conjunction with Flinders Shire Council, exclusively on this position. We offer local government expertise across a wide range of professional fields, providing tailored solutions for councils and other similar organisations. We work with our clients to deliver meaningful outcomes in recruitment and contracting services.

How to Apply

Before you apply for this position, please read the position description carefully to assess your eligibility and suitability for the position.  You will be required to answer a few questions that relate to the criteria on the online application below.  You will also be asked to attach your current resume and a cover letter(optional) Please note that you cannot submit your application without attaching your resume. When uploading your resume or documents please ensure file names should only include 'A-z', '0-9', '.' and '-' characters.

PLEASE NOTE: Once you have commenced your application you cannot save and continue at a later stage. It is recommended you answer the questions in a Word document to save then copy and paste your answers into the portal.

Applications will close on Friday 23rd January 2026 at 10 pm.  Please ensure you leave adequate time to complete your application before the closing date and time. 

For further information, please do not hesitate to contact Rona Horsfall at Peak Services on 0438 943854 for a confidential conversation.