Chief Executive Officer

Burke Shire is one of the most remote local government areas in Australia, located in the southern Gulf of Carpentaria and covering over 40,000 square kilometres. With a resident population of around 600, the Council delivers a broad range of services including civil infrastructure, utilities, corporate governance, and community support.

Following the catastrophic 2023–24 floods, Burke Shire now manages the largest flood recovery budget in the Gulf region, with a strong focus on infrastructure resilience, economic diversification, and sustainable service delivery.

The organisation employs approximately 50 staff, with six direct reports to the CEO, and recently adopted a new Corporate Plan 2025–2030 to guide its future direction. Project Management and Finance staff are based in Cairns.

Elite Executive is proud to partner with Burke Shire Council to recruit a transformational Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the organisation through a critical period of community recovery, infrastructure delivery, and regional growth. With an annual budget of $188 million for 2025–26 (a tenfold increase from typical years) this is an extraordinary opportunity for a visionary leader who thrives in complex, remote environments.

• Oversee implementation of Council's long-term strategic objectives.
• Lead the management and delivery of multi-million dollar flood recovery and capital works.
• Foster a high-performance culture within a multidisciplinary team.
• Engage with all levels of government, industry partners, Traditional Owners, and the wider community.
• Represent Burke Shire Council with visibility, integrity, and authenticity.

We are seeking a broad-minded, commercially savvy, and community-focused leader who can confidently manage large-scale infrastructure projects, motivate a diverse team, and position Burke Shire for long-term sustainability. You will bring:

• Strategic thinking combined with the ability to deliver practical outcomes.
• Strong governance, risk, and financial management capabilities.
• Demonstrated leadership in complex, highly regulated environments.
• Political acumen and an ability to build high-level partnerships across government and industry.
• A genuine respect for Indigenous culture and experience working with First Nations stakeholders.
• A collaborative, visible, and empathetic leadership style.

Local Government experience is highly regarded, but not essential. We welcome applications from experienced executives from infrastructure, utilities, public sector, regional development, or similar complex environments.

Based in Burketown, you will guide a supportive team, shape a resilient remote community, and enjoy a lifestyle with real purpose all while gaining national exposure in a high-impact leadership role. An attractive salary package is on offer, including accommodation, car allowance, relocation support and access to excellent medical facilities all within a strong, cohesive Council committed to supporting its CEO and delivering meaningful outcomes for the community.

Elite Executive is managing the search for this pivotal leadership role on behalf of Burke Shire Council. As regional executive search specialists, we are committed to supporting candidates throughout the process, including relocation advice, community integration, and cultural onboarding. Apply via link to receive a candidate information pack or call us for a confidential discussion at 07 4088 1571.

Closing date for applications will be 1700hrs Friday 17th October 2025.

Elite Executive reserves the right to conclude this process before the scheduled closing date.

Please note that all communication with Elite Executive is maintained strictly confidential. No information will be forwarded to any party without your permission as we respect your right to explore employment opportunities.

At Elite Executive we are committed to creating inclusive workplaces that promote and value diversity and inclusion. We encourage and welcome people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply.

ONLY APPLICANTS WITH THE RIGHT TO WORK IN AUSTRALIA WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS ROLE