Ken Gouldthorp appointed as new Cairns Regional Council CEO

Cairns Regional Council has appointed Ken Gouldthorp as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Mr Gouldthorp has been involved in local government for more than 20 years, most recently as the interim CEO at Isaac Regional Council (from August 2023 to June 2024).

He has also previously served as CEO at North Sydney, Mackay and Toowoomba councils.

While he was Toowoomba Regional Council CEO, Mr Gouldthorp coordinated local disaster responses during the unprecedented January 2011 floods and subsequently implemented a $175 million infrastructure flood recovery program, while maintaining the Council’s ongoing annual capital works program.

He was also tasked with implementing the Toowoomba Water Infrastructure Plan to secure essential water supply.

This included negotiating commercial terms for the acquisition of the Wivenhoe pipeline, saving Toowoomba Regional Council more than $55 million.

Mr Gouldthorp has a strong financial and governance background with qualifications that include Master of Commerce, Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) and Fellow of Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD).

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said this is a critical period for Council and our city, with a range of significant infrastructure challenges and the imminent cyclone season.

“Mr Gouldthorp has an understanding of the challenges faced by local governments and the delivery of major infrastructure projects, as well as experience in disaster recovery.”

Mr Gouldthorp is expected to take up his new appointment next month.

In the interim, Christine Posgate will serve as Acting CEO.