Redland City Council's general manager Nick Clarke retires

The announcement comes shortly after the resignation of the council’s chief executive Bill Lyon.

Mr Clarke, who had been the local disaster co-ordinator for five years, said he was sad to be leaving but happy with the decision.

“I have really enjoyed my seven years at Redland City Council and 16 years in local government,” he said.

 “I also have enjoyed the many challenges of working in a political environment in both local and state government, particularly council where you feel you are working with the community and making a difference.”

Mayor Karen Williams said Mr Clarke’s influence on council had been significant and positive since he joined in 2009.

“He has indeed helped to make a difference for Redlands,” she said.

“His role in leading our business transformation and advancing our corporate goals has been substantial and he has been responsible for leading our tremendous advancement in IT, governance and the Redlands’ capacity to respond to disasters.”

Cr Williams thanked Mr Clarke for the strong relationships he had helped build with the Quandamooka community, particularly through the development of the Indigenous Land Use Agreement.

“Under Nick’s organisational leadership, I believe that Redland City Council has become a benchmark for others, while as local disaster coordinator, he has brought great expertise and given many hours to ensuring the safety of all Redlanders,” said Cr Williams.

The mayor said she was disappointed to lose two people of their calibre at the same time, but knew their decisions had been made in the interests of the council and the city.

Mr Clarke will continue in the role until the end of the year.