Michael Dougall has been Chief Executive Officer at Mount Isa City Council since February 2006. He has worked in Local Government for 20 years.
What did you do before becoming a CEO?
I was Manager Environmental Services for the City of Port Phillip prior to moving to the Northern Territory for a desert change. I initially worked as a CEO and afterwards as a Regional Director for the Chief Minister’s Department, Northern Territory Government.
What are your interests outside of Council?
Bush camping, sailing, AFL Geelong Cats, family and travel.
What is a typical day like for you?
I start by walking my two standard poodles, then work with my staff, ratepayers and business leaders to provide leadership and resolve issues. This is interrupted by too much time reading emails.
What are the biggest operational challenges facing Council?
Attracting and retaining qualified and skilled staff at all levels of Council.
What is the most important lesson you have learned?
Teamwork – working closely with my staff and people.
What has been your funniest moment as CEO?
Waking a nightshift street sweeper driver who was sound asleep on a settee in a lunch room. When woken up he said, “What are you doing here?”
What has been your greatest achievement as CEO?
My involvement with the Buchanan Park development.
What is your Favourite quote?
To reach a port we must sail, sometimes with the wind and sometimes against it, but we must not drift or lay at anchor.
If you could invite three guests to dinner, who would they be?
Laurie Lawrence, Andrew Denton and Christie Malthouse.
