Council begins executive leadership transition
Fraser Coast Regional Council is embarking on a period of leadership renewal as several members of its long-standing Executive Leadership Team take on new opportunities.
Mayor George Seymour said the changes reflect the strength and capability of Council’s executive team, with departing leaders moving on to more senior roles across the state.
“Over the past seven years, our executive team has provided steady leadership to deliver high-quality services and infrastructure for our growing community,” Cr Seymour said.
“We’re now seeing the natural next step in that journey, with some of our senior leaders taking on exciting new opportunities in the state and local government sectors. It’s a credit to them and to our organisation.”
Former Director of Organisational Services, Keith Parsons, and former Director of Water and Waste Services Mark Vanner have both recently stepped into senior roles on the Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane.
Deputy CEO and Director of Strategy, Community and Development, Gerard Carlyon, will leave next month to become CEO of the Mackay Regional Council.
Recruitment processes are well underway. A new Director of Water and Waste Services is expected to be announced shortly, with recruitment for the remaining Director roles starting in the coming weeks. Recruitment for a new CEO will begin later this month.
CEO Ken Diehm, who announced last year his intention to retire in mid-2026, has advised Council that he is willing to bring forward his retirement to provide stability and certainty for Council, its workforce and the broader community.
“During my tenure over the past eight years, we have faced and overcome many challenges, strengthened our organisation, and set the foundations for a region that is now booming,” he said.
“The Fraser Coast is entering an exciting period of growth and opportunity, and I have every confidence the organisation will continue to thrive.
“I remain fully committed to supporting Council through this transition and will work closely with the new executive team to maintain continuity and momentum as we move forward.”
Cr Seymour thanked the outgoing executives for their contributions and acknowledged Mr Diehm’s commitment to a smooth transition.
“Each of these leaders has played a significant role in delivering for our community,” Cr Seymour said.
“We thank them for their service and wish them well in their next chapters. I also thank Ken for his willingness to adjust his own plans to help guide this important transition.
“This is a unique moment to shape the next era of leadership for Fraser Coast Regional Council.
“It is also an opportunity to welcome fresh ideas and perspectives as we continue working to build better communities together on the Fraser Coast.”
Mr Diehm plans to retire in Hervey Bay and continue playing an active role in the community.