Kiama Council has announced Jane Stroud will start work as its new CEO (renamed from General Manager to reflect an expanded role) on Monday 7 June, after she was the unanimous choice of councillors.

“We are delighted with the quality of applicants who applied for the privilege to lead our Council,” says Mayor Mark Honey.

“I’m thrilled to be able to announce that Jane has accepted the role.”

Mrs Stroud comes to Kiama Council from a role as Director Sustainable Development at the Southern Downs Regional Council in Queensland’s Darling Downs. Prior to this, she was with Logan City Council, between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, for 10 years.

“Jane has worked in local government in Queensland for over 20 years and brings a wide range of planning, innovation and community experience at the executive level,” says Mayor Honey.

“Jane has extensive leadership experience including: Acting CEO and Deputy CEO and Director level roles in several councils in South East and regional Queensland.

“She also has experience working in large metropolitan coastal councils, as well as urban and regional communities.

“Jane brings a wealth of knowledge and energy to the role of CEO. “

Mrs Stroud holds a Bachelor degree from the University of Queensland and post graduate qualifications from the Sunshine Coast University. She has also completed the Australia Institute of Company Directors course and has masters level training in community engagement.

She was awarded Queensland Local Government Association ‘Young Manager of the Year', and is also a member of the Australian Planning Institute, having held a national board role for several years focused on social planning.

Mrs Stroud was also the president of the Queensland Local Government Community Services Association and is known in the sector for her deep commitment to community, strategic planning, ability to problem solve and her passion for engaging with stakeholders.

In the announcement, she spoke highly of the role and the challenges and opportunities it presents, “I’m very excited to be taking up the opportunity and can’t wait to meet the whole team and the community. 

“My family and I are looking forward to settling in and becoming part of the fabric of community. I am personally very pleased to be able to bring my experience and skills to the role.”

Mayor Honey says, “We are looking forward to Jane joining our team.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank both Council’s Director Environmental Services, Jessica Rippon and Council’s Director Engineering and Works, Mike Dowd for their stewardship and leadership acting in the role of CEO since the departure of the former GM.”

Mike Dowd will continue in the role until Mrs Stroud takes up the role.