To say Lake Macquarie is close to chief executive officer David Hughes’ heart would be an understatement.
In fact, the newly-appointed council CEO grew up in the area and attended Belmont High School.
He’s also spent the past eight years as a director at the local government organisation.
After gaining selection from a wide field of candidates from across Australia, Mr Hughes will step into the role in August following previously planned leave.
The father-of-three adult children trained as an electrical fitter mechanic before obtaining a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) and a Masters of Business Administration (Operations Management) at the University of Wollongong.
He later worked extensively in senior positions in the private sector before taking up the role of council’s director built and natural assets in 2018, overseeing a $4.1 billion portfolio.
Key achievements during his time include significant improvements in workplace health and safety, optimising Lake Macquarie’s asset management strategy and directing a $110 million capital works program.
“I’m excited and honoured to be given the opportunity to lead council,” Mr Hughes said.
“We are here for the community, so our focus will be on providing effective and efficient services while we work to attract housing growth and business investment.”
Mr Hughes described his leadership style as “open, transparent and supportive, but disciplined”.
“My stewardship will be guided by simple principles,” he explained.
“The community always comes first, we must build capability by growing leaders from within and we must relentlessly pursue a safer, better, faster and more affordable way of working.”
Lake Macquarie City mayor Adam Shultz said councillors resolved at a meeting this week that Mr Hughes was the outstanding candidate, well-positioned to lead the organisation over the next four years.
“David has a proven track record of success as council’s director built and natural assets and in an acting role as Deputy CEO,” he stated.
“Prior to that, he was a similarly successful executive in the private sector.
“Time and again, he’s shown himself to be highly-capable, confident and compassionate.
“He shares our vision for Lake Macquarie City and has a leadership style that aligns with our values.”
Cr Shultz paid tribute to current CEO Tony Farrell, who took on the role temporarily after Morven Cameron stepped down in September 2025.
“Tony’s been a stalwart at council for many years,” he said.
“He shifted seamlessly from being Deputy CEO into the main job, keeping the organisation and our city moving ahead through a very challenging period.
“I want to thank him for his time and his tireless commitment to our city.”
Mr Farrell won’t be lost to Lake Macquarie City.
He’ll remain as CEO until 10 August when Mr Hughes begins his reign.
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