Philip Hood Named Director of Operations & Planning
Experienced local government leader Philip Hood has been appointed Director Operations and Planning at Kempsey Shire Council, following a comprehensive recruitment process.
Mr Hood’s career in local government has taken him across regional NSW, beginning in his hometown of Taree before progressing through roles in Tamworth, Scone and Walcha. With an early focus on water engineering and project delivery, he has since advanced into senior leadership positions covering a broad range of Council functions.
Mr Hood’s connection to the Macleay Valley is a long-standing one, with his family holidaying in Hat Head throughout his childhood.
“The Macleay Valley has always been a place my family and I would call home,” Mr Hood said.
“My wife and I have moved around for work over the years, but this is the place we would always come back to. In 2020 we made the commitment to invest in the area and since then we’ve been looking for opportunities to base ourselves here permanently.”
Kempsey Shire Council CEO, Andrew Meddle, welcomed the appointment.
“I am really pleased that we have someone of Mr Hood’s experience and skill joining our executive leadership team. He is a people-focused leader with extensive knowledge and a skill set that complements the strengths already within the Executive,” Mr Meddle said.
“A resident of Hat Head, Mr Hood has most recently held senior leadership roles with Walcha Council and Port Macquarie Hastings Council.”
Throughout his career, Mr Hood has taken a pragmatic approach to infrastructure delivery and community service, while championing workplace safety, staff wellbeing and compliance. With qualifications in engineering, communications and project management, he brings a broad and valuable skill set aligned to the diverse nature of local government.
“I am thrilled for the opportunity to apply my knowledge and expertise in service of the local community,” Mr Hood said.
“We face many challenges, but I firmly believe the best results come from honest conversations about the issues and being accountable for the solutions. My role is to ensure we, as a Council, deliver the best outcomes we can for our community.”
Mr Hood is currently employed at Port Macquarie Hastings Council and will commence with Kempsey Shire Council on Monday 16 February 2026.
https://www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/Your-Council/Council-news-public-notices/Council-news-updates/Philip-Hood-appointed-to-Director-Operations-and-Planning
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