Barunga West Council has appointed Mr Ian Hart as its new Chief Executive Officer, starting on Monday 23 November 2026. Mr Hart most recently served as CEO of Kingston District Council for almost three years. Before that, he was Director Community Development at Kangaroo Island Council and Executive Manager, Community and Economic Development at Derwent Valley Council in Tasmania.

His career also includes senior roles in regional economic development, tourism, and sport and recreation. He holds a Master of Business Administration and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Mayor Cr Leonie Kerley said, “Council is delighted to welcome Ian as our new Chief Executive Officer.” She pointed to Mr Hart’s regional local government and community development experience. Mayor Cr Kerley also thanked Interim CEO Mr Andrew Aitken for his leadership during the recruitment and transition period.

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The Town of Walkerville has appointed Mr Muhammad Jawad as its Chief Executive Officer following an external recruitment process. Mr Jawad joined the Town in 2023 as Group Manager Corporate Services and has been Acting CEO since April 2026.

Mayor Cr Melissa Jones said Council had seen his leadership first-hand over the past seven months. She highlighted his “willingness to roll up his sleeves and get involved” and his financial background.

Both appointments follow a period of interim or acting leadership, a pattern familiar across the sector.