Ms Jacob has more than 25 years’ experience in executive leadership roles across government, water, infrastructure, energy, natural resources and management consulting. Her most recent role was Deputy Director-General of Fisheries and Forestry Queensland at the Queensland Department of Primary Industries.

She will commence as Chief Executive Officer on 23 November 2026. She will work through a handover period with Interim Chief Executive Officer Mr David Burges, who departs on 27 November 2026.

Mayor Cr Samantha O’Toole said the council relies heavily on funding from other levels of government, and that Ms Jacob’s experience at senior levels of the Queensland Government positions her to support efforts to secure that funding. She also pointed to Ms Jacob’s experience in delivering financially sustainable outcomes in budgets much larger than the council’s, and her record of engaging with communities and stakeholders. “This is an exciting new chapter for our Council,” Cr O’Toole said.

Cr O’Toole thanked Mr Burges for his steady and dependable leadership while the recruitment process was finalised.

Ms Jacob said she was drawn to the role by the chance to deliver tangible outcomes that help shape a positive future for the community. She said she has visited the region several times and looks forward to getting around the shire to meet residents. She also thanked councillors for their trust.