Tablelands Regional Council has appointed Hurriyet Babacan as its new chief executive officer.
TRC Mayor Joe Paronella said the council had sought a candidate with a customer and community centric approach, rural and regional insights, a high degree of commercial acumen, innovation and the ability to inspire, lead and transform.
“Ms Babacan brings to the role extensive and vastly impressive leadership experience in academia, government and non-government organisations and certainly ticks all the boxes,” Cr Paronella said.
“As an Order of Australia recipient for her contribution to policy development and social inclusion, Ms Babacan has a proven record of maintaining collaborative partnerships across Australia and overseas, with an outstanding understanding and approach to community engagement and development.
“In the region, she is known for a large number of achievements in her role as founding director of the Cairns Institute at James Cook University and her work on health and human services sector development in northern Australia.
“More recently she was the principal scientist in the securing of a $31 million grant to establish and lead a tropical water quality research program in Cairns.”
Ms Babacan will start in her new role in October, and has held various strategic roles including Victorian Manager, Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, Executive Director, Department of Premier and Cabinet (Qld), Foundation Director of the Cairns Institute, and Pro Vice Chancellor, Torrens University.
“I see opportunities for rejuvenation and growth for the Tablelands to be an innovative and productive region where young people, families and retirees enjoy jobs, social vibrancy and access quality services,” Ms Babacan said.
“We have the opportunity to create strong ties to local places and have multiple positive impacts for local communities.
“I will make sensible decisions in the best interest of ratepayers and residents whilst providing a clear direction and vision for staff.
“I’m looking forward to becoming a part of the local community, seeking and securing opportunities for improved outcomes and helping guide Council to a sustainable and prosperous future.”
Deputy Mayor and recruitment panel chair Katrina Spies is enthusiastic about the future of the region under the guidance of Ms Babacan.
Cr Spies was pleased with the high caliber of applicants and Ms Babacan was a natural standout.
“We have found someone with the genuine ability to think outside the box and challenge some of our ways of thinking and I’m therefore very excited about the journey we are about to commence with Ms Babacan.”