The under-fire CEO of Gold Coast City Council has confirmed he will leave the organisation at the end of the year, following several turbulent months in the top job.
Tim Baker information Mayor Tom Tate that he will not seek renewal of his contract and will conclude his tenure with council in December.
“Tim has served as Chief Executive Officer of the City of Gold Coast since 2021 and I thank him for his service to the City during that time,” The Mayor said in a statement.
“Tim has led one of Australia’s largest local governments through a period of significant change.”
“Under his leadership, the City strengthened its long-term financial sustainability, modernised its operating model, delivered major infrastructure and service improvements, enhanced organisational capability and positioned itself to meet the opportunities and challenges associated with the Gold Coast’s continued growth and the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
“On behalf of Council, I thank Tim for his service to the Council and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”
Mr Baker said serving the Gold Coast had been a privilege.
“Over recent months, my wife and I have been considering the next chapter for our family and what that means for our future,” he said.
“After careful reflection, I determined that I was unlikely to be in a position to make the longer term commitment required of the role beyond my current contract. I therefore considered it important to provide the Mayor and Council with sufficient notice to plan for the future leadership of the organisation.
“I am grateful to the City’s employees for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to serving the Gold Coast community.
“My focus for the remainder of my tenure will be on supporting Council’s priorities, continuing to lead the organisation and ensuring a smooth transition to new leadership.”
While Mr Baker will continue to serve as CEO until December, he will take a period of leave.
During this time, an Acting CEO will be appointed before the recruitment process for his successor begins.
The news follows months of drama for Mr Baker and the organisation, including question marks around his travel expenses, the hiring of a mysterious $300,000 manager position and the restructuring of the organisation.
Just last week, Councillors had been pushing for an independent review into the CEO and his leadership team regarding their effectiveness and performance.
