City of Parramatta has appointed Steven Head as its new interim Chief Executive Officer, with the experienced local government executive set to begin a 12-month term later this month.
Head will formally commence the role on Monday, 26 October 2026, following a recruitment process conducted by the council.
Extensive NSW Local Government Experience
Head has held senior leadership roles across several NSW councils, including:
- Hornsby Shire Council
- Uralla Shire Council
- Willoughby City Council
- Ku-ring-gai Council
He has also worked in senior roles within the NSW transport sector.
Most recently, Head served as General Manager of Hornsby Shire Council, a position he held during major planning and infrastructure discussions affecting Sydney’s north. NSW parliamentary records from 2024 identify him in that role during hearings into the state’s Transport Oriented Development Program.
Earlier in his career, he held planning and infrastructure positions at Ku-ring-gai and Willoughby councils.
12-Month Interim Appointment
Head’s appointment is for an initial 12-month period.
During that time, he will be responsible for overseeing City of Parramatta’s administration, implementing council decisions and managing the organisation’s workforce and operations.
The council said his experience across planning, infrastructure and local government management would support the organisation as Parramatta continues to undergo significant residential, commercial and public infrastructure development.
Appointment Comes During Governance Focus
The leadership change comes during a period of heightened attention on governance at City of Parramatta.
The council’s website currently maintains a dedicated public inquiry section relating to an Independent Commission Against Corruption inquiry and Council response plan, which was published in August 2026.
Local media have also reported that the interim CEO appointment follows the council’s earlier separation from former CEO Gail Connolly.
Head will therefore take over the organisation at a time when council governance, accountability and internal management remain important areas of focus.
New Leadership Team at Parramatta
His appointment also follows the election of Cameron MacLean as Lord Mayor of Parramatta on 28 September 2026, with Kellie Darley elected Deputy Lord Mayor.
MacLean said Head’s appointment would support the council’s focus on service delivery, governance and managing Parramatta’s continued growth.
Head said he looked forward to working with councillors, staff and the community during his term.
He will begin as interim CEO on 26 October 2026 and is currently expected to remain in the role for 12 months.