About LG Services Group

Scott Mason is a highly accomplished public sector executive with a distinguished career spanning over two decades. He has served as a Chief Executive Officer within the local government sector, with a particular focus on regional and rural areas across Queensland, Australia.

Scott possesses a deep understanding of the challenges that come with public-facing executive leadership roles and corporate governance. He has been entrusted with the stewardship of critical community infrastructure, programs, and services, which has equipped him with invaluable experience in managing complex and multifaceted responsibilities.

His career is characterised by a diverse skill set and a commitment to excellence in various areas.

Leadership and Culture: Scott is renowned for his innovative and transformative leadership style. He has consistently fostered growth in high-performing leadership teams by enhancing their capabilities.

Stakeholder Engagement: One of Scott's standout strengths is his exceptional ability to engage and manage stakeholders effectively. He has a track record of forging and maintaining strategic collaborative relationships with a wide array of community groups, committees, and key stakeholders.

Communication: Scott is a highly effective communicator who excels in conveying information clearly and concisely to both internal and external stakeholders. His interpersonal skills are a key asset, allowing him to tailor information to the specific requirements of diverse audiences.

Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: With a keen sense of problem-solving and sound judgment, Scott is skilled at making commercial-based decisions that facilitate sustainable organisational growth. He has consistently demonstrated flexibility and commercial innovation in addressing emerging issues and stakeholder needs.

Financial and Governance Expertise: As a custodian of financial and budget governance, Scott plays a pivotal role in safeguarding an organisation's strategic direction. His financial management skills are essential in guiding organisations towards both short-term and long-term goals.

Scott Mason's career journey includes several significant roles.

As Chief Executive Officer of LG Services Group, he oversees a wide range of projects, including executive recruitment, organisation structure reviews, culture improvement programs, strategic planning, policy development, and leadership development.

From 2013 to 2021, Scott served as the Chief Executive Officer of Central Highlands Regional Council, where he provided strategic leadership in various critical areas, including governance, performance management, financial management, and stakeholder relations. His tenure was marked by a remarkable transformation of the organisational culture and significant workforce reduction while improving efficiency.

Scott's earlier experience as Chief Executive Officer of Diamantina Shire Council (2007 to 2013) was characterised by transformative leadership and effective management during major flood events. His accomplishments during this time earned him the Local Government Managers Australia Manager of the Year Award in 2010.

Scott Mason's enduring impact on the local government sector in Queensland is a testament to his leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His ability to lead transformative change and build strategic partnerships has left a lasting legacy in the organisations he has led.

Beginning her career in the Education sector, Helen worked as an academic at the University of Sydney following completion of her Master's degree. Not surprisingly, with this background Helen has a passion for lifelong learning and professional development.

In 2006, Helen joined Manly Council on Sydney's Northern Beaches and quickly developed a strong commitment to the sector, with a passion for advancing the "local government brand" generally and raising awareness of the vast output and importance of the sector in the life of the communities they serve.

After the 2016 NSW amalgamation programme conducted by the then State Government of NSW, Manly became part of the three Sydney peninsula Council merger (Pittwater, Warringah and Manly). The new Northern Beaches Council, of around 1800 FTE, was a challenging and once in a lifetime change environment for all involved.

Helen became the Executive Manager, Governance and Enterprise Risk, followed by Acting Deputy General Manager, Corporate Services, then finally the General Manager, Customer and Corporate at the now fourth largest Council in NSW.

Her portfolios at Northern Beaches included Finance, Communications and Community Engagement, Legal Services, HR/WHS, Library Services, Customer Service, Governance/Risk and IT. The staff in her Directorate alone numbered just under 400.

Helen also performed the role of Acting CEO at Northern Beaches Council in 2018 prior to joining Blackadder Associates (now LG Services Group) in 2019 as the State Manager.

Since then, Helen has worked with around 50 Councils across the Eastern States and specialises in executive recruitment up to General Manager / CEO level, which she has embraced with the same passion as her own local government roles.

Recent assignments in Tasmania as well as NSW mean she is particularly versed in the landscape of these two States and the processes and current pressures in these jurisdictions.

Helen is also accredited in the Hogan Assessment System.

John has over 30 years' experience in local government, with over 20 of those years being in high performing Executive Teams. He commenced his local government career at Logan City Council in 1984 as a cadet straight out of high school and worked his way through the entire business to become Chief Operating Officer.

John held the Chief Operating Officer / Deputy CEO position at Logan City for over 15 years until 2017. At this time, Logan City Council was the 5th largest Council by population and had the 3rd largest local government budget in Australia. It was also one of the fastest growing local government areas in the country his entire tenure, with significant socio-economic and multi-cultural challenges.

John held management positions in every Council department, so he knows the business of local government intimately.

John filled the key role of Director of Corporate Services at Redland Council from 2016 until 2022. John also has commercial experience, including owning and running hotels and property development, as well as holding Directorships in both industries.

John is passionate about helping bring people together to find practical solutions to complex problems. His key focus areas are good governance, financial diligence, audit, understanding team dynamics, authentic leadership and organisational culture, professional coaching and mentoring and people development, performance management and accountability, mediation and corporate, operational and strategic planning and decision making.

Academic and Professional Qualifications: John holds a Masters in Public Administration, a Bachelor of Commerce Degree (he is a Certified Practising Accountant, CPA) and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. John is a Fellow of Local Government Managers Australia (FLGMA). He is a LGMA Queensland Past President, a former National Director and is currently National Audit Committee Chair. He is also a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Justice of the Peace (Qualified).

David Ward brings over 33 years of executive leadership experience in local government, including 16 years as a Chief Executive Officer. His career is defined by his ability to lead organisations through growth, change, and innovation, coupled with a steadfast commitment to governance excellence and community service.

David served as CEO of Selwyn District Council (SDC) from 2013 to 2023, guiding the fastest-growing region in New Zealand through a decade of expansion. With a net equity value of $2.6 billion, an annual turnover of $230 million, and a workforce of 620, he ensured robust governance, financial stewardship, and strategic planning for the district. Notable achievements include leading Long-Term Plan development and adopting district-wide rates for essential services. He also implemented comprehensive risk and business continuity frameworks, supporting the council's ability to adapt to dynamic community needs.

Prior to SDC, David was the CEO of Horowhenua District Council (HDC) from 2007 to 2013, overseeing significant advancements in financial policy and community engagement. His earlier tenure at Tasman District Council as Corporate Services Manager, from 1991 to 2007, solidified his expertise in financial management, communications, and IT leadership.

Governance and National Contributions. David's governance contributions extend beyond council chambers. He was a member of the LGNZ Audit Committee for 10 years from 2012. David is currently independent Chair of Clutha District Council Risk and Assurance Committee. His leadership has shaped national local government strategies, including as Chair of Taituarā working groups and contributor to governance frameworks. His achievements include recognition as a Life Member of Taituarā and receipt of the Fellowship Chartered Accountant designation in 2019 for services to local government.

Leadership and Organisational Development. A firm believer in investing in people, David initiated staff development programmes such as young professional groups, future leader courses, and Te Reo classes. He has led several organisational structure reviews, promoting culture checks and fostering career pathways for staff. His emphasis on mentorship and professional growth has strengthened the resilience and capacity of the teams he has led.

Personal and Professional Philosophy. David's leadership is guided by principles of common sense, clarity, and innovation. He is committed to solutions that are simple, effective, and accessible to all stakeholders. His personal values are reflected in his dedication to nurturing relationships with iwi, government agencies, and local communities, promoting collaboration and shared success.

David Ward brings a wealth of experience to local government consulting, offering a unique combination of strategic leadership, financial acumen, and practical expertise to support councils in achieving their goals.

Financial Leadership: proven ability to oversee complex financial planning, asset management, and sustainable budgeting to support long-term community goals.

Strategic Leadership: a track record of leading organisations through significant growth, legislative reform, and change management while maintaining strong community outcomes.

Organisational Development: skilled in mentoring leaders, building collaborative organisational cultures, and fostering professional development within teams.

Practical Solutions: a hands-on approach to solving complex local government challenges with innovative, community-focused strategies tailored to meet diverse needs.

Academic and Professional Qualifications: Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA), recognised for his contribution to local government. Member of the Institute of Directors, with advanced training in governance. Extensive expertise in financial management, treasury operations, and risk assurance.

With an impressive 50-year career in local government, Terrey brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership expertise to the team. Holding the positions of Shire Clerk and, later, General Manager for Coolamon Shire Council, Terrey has completed over 50 assignments since joining LG Services Group in 2014.

Terrey's specialties include executive recruitment, organisational structure, performance reviews and agreements, and internal audit.

With a clear understanding of the requirements within rural Councils and the challenges faced, Terrey is able to provide a valuable service in the end to end recruitment process.

Terrey draws on his vast experience to identify the right candidate for Council, or if needed, is able to suggest a member of our accredited team of interim managers to fill any gap until a position is filled, minimising disruption to Council.

Terrey has successfully recruited General Manager roles for Bland Shire, Cabonne Council, Coolamon Shire Council, Greater Hume Shire Council, Gundagai Shire Council, Lockhart Shire Council, Nambucca Shire Council, Oberon Council, Riverina Water County Council, Upper Macquarie Regional Council, Uralla Shire Council, Wagga Wagga City Council, Warrumbungle Council, Weddin Shire Council and Wellington Council.

Former General Manager with 33 years' experience in local government, 22 years as General Manager and a further six years as a Director/Manager.

Steven was an integral part of the transition of five Councils to three in which Greater Hume was formed in 2004, both in Director and General Manager roles. He continued as General Manager, guiding Greater Hume through the NSW Government's Fit for the Future process and establishing a sustainable Council.

More recently Steven has been assisting Snowy Valleys Council to provide guidance and leadership through a de-amalgamation application.

Steven has an extraordinary passion for local government in regional and rural areas and has a unique understanding of the many challenges facing Councils, including financial sustainability, staff recruitment and retention and economic and community development.

Steven comes from a strong Corporate and Community Services background and his strengths are in good governance, financial due diligence, audit, leadership, project management, organisational restructuring and culture, performance management in NSW and Tasmania, mentoring, and professional development of staff at all levels of the organisation.

As part of the LG Services Group team, Steven is available to assist your Council with recruitment and staff development needs.

With over ten years working with local government in recruitment, individual and team coaching and development, and in facilitating on-site employee engagement surveys, Chris has a thorough understanding of the local government environment.

Chris has successfully recruited many roles into local government at the Director, Manager and Coordinator levels across all directorates. Most recent recruitments include Hornsby Shire Council, Strathfield Council, Glen Innes Severn Council, NSROC, Blacktown City Council, Lismore City Council, Byron Shire Council and West Tamar Council.

As an advocate for proactive organisational development and building a positive culture, Chris gained accreditation in Hogan Psychometric Profiling in 2015 and is an expert in the analysis and interpretation of Hogan assessments: determining the strengths and development areas of candidates for senior roles, providing individual coaching, determining the culture individuals within a team create, and cultivating a desire by teams to become higher performing, through understanding individual and team behaviours and the effects these have on team and organisational outcomes.

Many Councils utilise Chris's services with their recruitment through the use of Hogan Personality Profiling, allowing the line manager to gain insight into the team dynamics and how they may function together to ensure the right fit for the team and organisation.

Chris also has expertise in facilitating the implementation of an employee engagement survey and in analysing the survey results, linking these outcomes back to the organisation's performance and in providing detailed feedback and advice to clients. Chris has presented findings and facilitated workshops with the Councillor governing body, Executive Teams, Directorates/Business Units and whole of organisations, to allow all stakeholders to be aware of and take responsibility for initiatives to improve the workplace environment, employee capability and community sentiments.

Chris's strong interpersonal skills and engaging style provide a comfort level for clients by offering a platform for open and honest discussions. Chris's ability to gather information, provide objective advice, and connect and converse with people at all levels is her strength: from Mayors, Councillors, Board members, CEOs and senior staff to the engine room of organisations.

With over 40 years in local and commonwealth public sectors at specialist, management and CEO levels, Peter is accredited with CPA (Fellow), IPWEA, PIA and associate with LGMA/LGProfessionals.

He has applied several transformational tools in reshaping financial, asset and risk strategy to support organisation objectives. Similarly, Peter has established pricing and performance frameworks and organisation structures on a service-program-activity framework.

Peter designed several policy and program initiatives and models involving rating and finance, triple bottom line and integrated planning with financial, asset and workforce planning successfully introduced into local councils. He also shaped infrastructure asset, utility and risk management models that were recognised with NSW Premier, CPA President and United Nations awards. He is accredited as a public sector audit and risk committee member.

Recently, Peter guided the successful merger of two local government entities and migrated organisation structures, and harmonised levels of asset, service and rating systems, culminating in the 2020 AR Bluett Award for metro/regional NSW councils.

Strategic thinking and relevant planning skills in local government round out the value Peter brings to LG Services Group as a Senior Executive Adviser.

Tara is an experienced People and Culture Specialist with more than fifteen years in human resources, organisational development, and employee relations. She is currently the Interim Human Resources Officer at Barcoo Shire Council, supporting the organisation through a period of cultural and structural change.

Her background spans local government, hospitality and corporate sectors, where she has led people and culture strategies, workforce planning, and employee engagement initiatives. Tara's experience includes end-to-end recruitment, leadership coaching, policy and systems development, and managing work health and safety, wellbeing and compliance programs.

With a Diploma in Human Resources Management and certification as a Return to Work Coordinator, Tara combines strategic insight with a practical, solutions-focused approach. Her ability to analyse data, interpret legislation, and apply sound judgement supports organisations to strengthen performance and culture.

Tara's inclusive and consultative style enables her to work effectively with leaders, Councillors, and staff at all levels. She excels at fostering open dialogue, guiding teams through transitions, and establishing practices that boost employee capability and workplace wellbeing.

Alana oversees the financial operations of the business and is responsible for the financial strategy, planning and management at LG Services Group.

Alana is a seasoned finance professional with over a decade of experience in project administration and financial management. With a background in Food Science from the University of Queensland, she has successfully managed projects for various companies in Australia and England, specialising in compliance, business process, audit and financial reporting. Prior to her current role, Alana managed her own consulting business servicing both private and public companies.

Emma is a highly skilled and dedicated Office Executive who plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless operation of our office. With exceptional organisational abilities and a strategic mindset, she oversees all administrative functions, coordinates key office activities, and ensures that daily operations run flawlessly. Emma not only manages our accounts with precision but also takes charge of all proposals, driving their successful completion. Her strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail make her an invaluable member of our team. As the primary contact for the office, Emma ensures that every interaction is conducted with the utmost professionalism and excellence.

Becy is an experienced recruitment professional with a strong background in executive support, HR coordination and talent management across local government and the broader public sector. She brings a calm, methodical approach to every assignment and is known for her discretion, efficiency and genuine care for the people she works with.

At LG Services Group, she coordinates end-to-end recruitment processes for executive and senior management positions. Her sharp organisational skills, clear communication and attention to detail ensure a seamless experience for clients and candidates alike.

With over a decade supporting senior leaders in local government, she understands executive priorities and combines that insight with HR training. Becy's thoughtful approach, reliability and commitment to quality outcomes make her an integral part of the LG Services Group team.

Evan Lockhart is a sustainability professional with over seven years of experience, primarily in local government. Evan specialises in waste management, circular economy initiatives, and community engagement. With a Master's in Sustainable Resource Management from the Technical University of Munich and a Bachelor's in Environmental Health, Evan has led waste education programs, developed procurement contracts, and managed large-scale waste collection projects. His leadership experience includes overseeing teams, fostering collaboration, and delivering strategic environmental programs. Passionate about resource recovery and behaviour change, Evan is dedicated to creating sustainable solutions that benefit both communities and the environment.