Western Downs Regional Council has appointed Joshua Hannan as its new Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive national recruitment process to identify the organisation's next leader.
Mr Hannan will commence later this year, bringing more than a decade of senior executive leadership experience across state and local government, including local government, transport, infrastructure, water, planning, and regional development.
Most recently, Mr Hannan served as Deputy Director-General, Local Government within the Queensland Government and was appointed Acting Director-General of the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers in 2025.
Prior to this, he spent almost nine years as General Manager, Transport Strategy and Planning with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith said Council was delighted to secure an executive of Mr Hannan's calibre to lead the organisation into its next chapter.
"Joshua is an outstanding appointment for the Western Downs and brings extensive leadership experience across local government, transport, water, infrastructure, planning, and regional development," Mayor Smith said.
"Throughout the recruitment process, it became clear that Joshua offers the strategic leadership, government experience, and advocacy skills needed to lead Council through the next phase of our growth.
"Just as importantly, Joshua is the right cultural fit for our organisation. Council has worked hard in recent years to strengthen its culture, enhance collaboration, and build a workplace that attracts and retains great people.
"We wanted a leader who would continue that journey and build on the progress already being achieved.
"Western Downs is entering a significant period of growth and opportunity, but with that growth comes increasing demands on infrastructure, services, and advocacy.
"We are already in a strong position as an organisation, with positive momentum, strong foundations, and a reputation for performance that was clearly recognised throughout the recruitment process.
"What we need now is a leader who can build on that success, continue driving improvement, and position Council to capitalise on the opportunities ahead, and I am confident Joshua is that leader.
"His background across local government, transport, water, and regional infrastructure will strengthen Council's advocacy efforts with all levels of government and help ensure we continue delivering for our communities."
Mr Hannan said he was honoured to accept the appointment and looked forward to building on Council's strong reputation effective from 15 October 2026.
"It is a privilege to be appointed Chief Executive Officer of Western Downs Regional Council and to have the confidence of Mayor Smith and Councillors to lead this outstanding organisation," Mr Hannan said.
"The Western Downs is one of Queensland's most dynamic and economically important regions, supported by strong agriculture, energy, manufacturing, transport, and tourism sectors.
"Council has built an enviable reputation for financial responsibility, good governance, and service delivery, and I am excited by the opportunity to build on those achievements.
"My experience working with local governments across Queensland has given me a strong appreciation of the vital role councils play in supporting communities, driving economic growth, and delivering essential infrastructure and services.
"I look forward to working closely with Councillors, staff, community members, businesses, and government partners to ensure the Western Downs continues to thrive, attract investment, and remain an exceptional place to live, work, invest, and visit."
Mayor Smith said the appointment marked an exciting new chapter for the organisation.
"Western Downs has achieved a great deal in recent years, but we're not standing still," he said.
"We have ambitious plans for our communities, and Joshua's leadership experience, strategic outlook, and understanding of government will help us continue building momentum and delivering on the aspirations of our region."
