Council Appoints Tom Upton as New Chief Executive Officer
Published on 13 May 2026
Livingstone Shire Council has today announced the appointment of Tom Upton as its new Chief Executive Officer following an extensive and highly competitive recruitment process.
Mayor Adam Belot said Council undertook a thorough recruitment campaign that attracted a strong field of high-calibre candidates from across the local government sector and beyond.
“This was a significant appointment for Council and our community, and Councillors approached the process with great care, patience and diligence to ensure the best possible outcome for the organisation and our people,” Mayor Belot said.
“We were committed to appointing a CEO who would be a stabilising and unifying presence for Council, someone aligned with our organisational values, committed to strong governance, and focused on building trust, consistency and a positive workplace culture.”
Mayor Belot said recruiting a competent and capable CEO was vital to the success and stability of any Council.
“Livingstone has seen firsthand how much of a difference it makes when the CEO, Mayor and Councillors work respectfully and collaboratively together,” he said.
“The last 12 months with Mr Dawson as Interim CEO have delivered tremendous outcomes for Livingstone, and I strongly believe Tom Upton brings those same qualities with him.”
Mayor Belot said Mr Upton stood out as a leader with extensive local government executive experience and a strong reputation for governance, financial management and community engagement.
“Tom brings significant experience in senior leadership roles across regional Queensland councils, with a strong focus on organisational performance, stakeholder engagement, governance and long-term financial sustainability,” he said.
“He has demonstrated an ability to lead organisations through periods of change while maintaining a strong focus on people, culture and delivering outcomes for communities.
“I have also observed Mr Upton work alongside one of Queensland’s most respected local government leaders, Mayor Nev Ferrier from Banana Shire Council, and their strong record over the past seven years gives me a great deal of confidence that we have made an excellent appointment.”
“As one of the fastest growing regions outside Southeast Queensland, Livingstone is facing both enormous opportunities and complex challenges. Council was seeking a CEO who understands the importance of balancing growth, governance, community expectations and organisational culture, and we are confident Tom is the right person to lead that journey.”
Mayor Belot said Mr Upton’s appointment reflected Council’s continued focus on stability, performance and strengthening organisational capability.
“We are building a culture that values accountability, professionalism, collaboration and service to our community,” he said.
“Tom’s leadership style and experience strongly align with that vision, and we look forward to working together to continue delivering for the people of Livingstone Shire.”
Mayor Belot said the successful recruitment process reflected Council’s commitment to securing the best possible leadership outcome for the organisation and community.
“This process was comprehensive and deliberate, and I want to thank my fellow Councillors and officers for their professionalism and diligence shown throughout,” he said.
“We recognise the importance of strong and stable leadership, not only for Council staff, but for our community and stakeholders more broadly.”
Incoming CEO Tom Upton said he was honoured to have been appointed to the role and was looking forward to working with Councillors, staff and the community.
“I am incredibly excited by the opportunity to join Livingstone Shire Council at such an important time for the region,” Mr Upton said.
“Livingstone is a community with enormous potential, strong local pride and significant opportunities ahead, and I’m looking forward to working collaboratively with Council, staff and stakeholders to help shape that future.”
Mr Upton said building strong organisational culture and maintaining trust and transparency would be key priorities.
“I believe strong organisations are built on clear values, respectful relationships and empowering people to perform at their best,” he said.
“I am committed to fostering a positive and collaborative workplace culture, supporting our people and ensuring Council remains focused on delivering high-quality outcomes for the community.”
Mr Upton will commence with Livingstone Shire Council on 29 June 2026.