Mayor Adam Roberts has today announced the appointment of Mr Robert Fish as the new General Manager of Port Macquarie Hastings Council.
Mr Fish has been acting in the role of Chief Executive Officer since March 2025.
A rigorous recruitment process was undertaken, including a nationwide search over several months that attracted multiple high-calibre candidates. All Councillors participated in the final selection process, and at an Extra Ordinary Council Meeting held on 9 October 2025, Council resolved to offer Mr Fish the position.
Mr Fish will formally commence in the role on 3 November 2025.
Quotes attributable to Mayor Adam Roberts
"It's a pleasure to formally welcome Robert Fish to the role of General Manager.
"I've worked closely with Robert over the past seven months while he has been in the Acting role, ensuring we maintained the organisation's momentum and strategic direction throughout the recruitment process.
Robert's leadership during the May weather event was a particular highlight for me. His strength of character and steady hands were on full display during what was a challenging time for our community. It has been clear to all that Robert has earned the respect of our community, the broader region, and the Council organisation.
"I look forward to continuing to work with Robert to ensure our Council remains focused on delivering for our community."
Quotes attributable to Robert Fish
"I am sincerely thankful for the trust and confidence that Council has placed in me, and for the opportunity to continue permanently in the General Manager role.
"It is a great privilege to continue leading this organisation and serve a community and region that I am proud to call home.
"The Port Macquarie Hastings region holds tremendous opportunity, and I'm equally mindful of the challenges that come with realising its full potential.
"I look forward to continuing our advocacy and delivery of the region's priorities and maintaining a strong focus on achieving positive service outcomes for our community."
Prior to joining Council in 2022 as Director Community Infrastructure, Mr Fish – an experienced engineer – had a long a history working in senior roles within Local Government.
His roles have included; Projects/Contract Engineer at Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, Manager Operations at Great Lakes Council, Director Engineering at Yass Valley Council, Director Operations and Planning at Kempsey Shire Council and most recently Director Community Infrastructure Port Macquarie Hastings Council.
Acting Director Community Infrastructure Blayne West will remain in the role vacated by Mr Fish, until such time as Council recruits for the position on a permanent basis.
