The Shire of Gingin has appointed Zac Donovan as its new Chief Executive Officer, with a start date of 4 January 2027.
Mr Donovan is currently CEO of the Shire of Koorda. He previously held senior executive roles at WALGA, and has a background in media management and government relations. That includes positions with WA Newspapers, the Adelaide Advertiser, Channel Ten, and both the State and Federal Departments of Premier and Cabinet.
Shire President Cr Linda Balcombe said, “This is an exciting appointment for the Shire of Gingin.” She said his experience as a CEO, together with his advocacy, communications and local government leadership background, positions him well to guide the organisation through the challenges of a growing community.
James Bayliss has served as Temporary CEO since February 2026. Cr Balcombe thanked him for providing stability and continuity while Council ran the recruitment process. Mr Bayliss will remain in the role until Mr Donovan starts in January.
The recruitment was overseen by a CEO Recruitment Panel Committee, comprising four Councillors, an external human resources consultant and an independent qualified member of the public.