Western Downs Regional Council will look to recruit a new CEO later in 2026 after CEO Jodie Taylor announced today that she will not seek to renew her contract.
Mrs Taylor concludes an exceptional 21-year career in Local Government on the Western Downs, five years as CEO, and will conclude her tenure in December to embark on extended travel adventures with long-time husband Brad.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith said Mrs Taylor's legacy will be one of empowerment, collaboration, and genuine commitment to the wellbeing of Council staff and the region's residents.
"Jodie has been an extraordinary leader, whose unwavering commitment to our region and its people has profoundly shaped both our organisation and our communities," Mayor Smith said.
"Her dynamic leadership sparked a cultural transformation within Council, fostering an environment of transparency, teamwork, and accountability.
"Jodie's passion for continual improvement and innovation has seen Western Downs Council become a benchmark for best practice in local government.
"As a key member of Council's Executive Leadership Team and more recently as our CEO, Jodie has fostered a relationship of trust, respect, and transparency with our Elected Member team, guiding the organisation to deliver operational excellence at every turn.
"Jodie has been a transformative leader who places community needs at the heart of every decision and balances vision with practical action, ensuring the Western Downs has earned a reputation for financial responsibility, excellent governance and as a region to do business."
Mrs Taylor's achievements were recognised when she was named LGMA Queensland's Manager of the Year in 2023, a testament to her exceptional impact during her tenure as Western Downs Regional Council CEO.
Mayor Smith said while Mrs Taylor's departure will mark the end of a remarkable chapter, it also presents an exciting opportunity for an exceptional new leader to build on Council's achievements and guide Western Downs into the future.
"Western Downs is one of the few debt-free Councils in Queensland and the region is an economic powerhouse due to our thriving agriculture, intensive agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and tourism industries," he said.
"As Council prepares to launch its recruitment for our next progressive CEO to take the reins in December, we'll be committing to a robust and intensive selection process to ensure the continued success of our region and its communities.
"This early announcement provides Council with time to conduct a thorough recruitment campaign, ensuring the appointment of a high-calibre successor to maintain stability and progress for the organisation to best serve our communities.
"On behalf of my fellow Councillors, Council staff, and the Western Downs community, I'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jodie for her vision, service, and inspirational leadership.
"We wish Jodie and Brad every happiness as they set off on their well-earned travels next year and look forward to following their adventures."
