Tony Farrell, formerly director of city strategy, was appointed deputy chief executive officer in February.

David Hughes has been appointed director of built and natural assets.

Laura Kendall will take up the role of director of organisational services.

And John Ferguson is the new director of service delivery.

Mr Hughes, whose career has included senior management positions in the private sector, most recently with Ampcontrol, began his new role this week.

Ms Kendall and Mr Ferguson, who have been promoted from existing management positions within council, will transition to their new directorships over the next month.

Chief executive officer, Morven Cameron, expects to announce two more appointments to compelete the new senior leadership team in the coming weeks.

“I am delighted to have leaders of the calibre of Tony, David, Laura and John who will lead our organisation and city into the future,” Ms Cameron said.

“They all have proven ability to build collaborative working relationships and share a strong customer focus that will help council improve and excel in the way we deliver services to our community.”

Mayor Kay Fraser said the appointments marked the beginning of an exciting new direction for council and the city.

“We want to build on council’s reputation for stability and sound management to be a modern, progressive organisation that is responsive to change,” Cr Fraser said.

“I am pleased to welcome David to the organisation and look forward to working with all in the new leadership team as we continue to take Lake Macquarie forward.”

The announcement follows the appointment earlier this month of a new CEO at Central Coast Council.

Gary Murphy will begin a five-year contract at Wyong and Gosford on July 2.

Mr Murphy is a former chief executive of Buller District Council, in New Zealand and, for the past seven years, with Lismore City Council.

Central Coast mayor Jane Smith said Mr Murphy was known for his “innovative and people-centric approach”, and his record of achievement.​