Central Coast Council Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Central Coast Council has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, community engagement, and human resources.

Committed to sustainable urban development, Central Coast Council maintains the lifestyle of the sixth largest urban area in Australia while planning for long-term regional growth and infrastructure resilience.

Leadership Roles at Central Coast Council

  • Chief Executive Officer - Scott McLachlan
  • Chief Financial Officer - Emma Galea
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Jamal Ghannam
  • Chief People Officer - Darrylen Law
  • Scott McLachlan - Chief Executive Officer

    Scott McLachlan, the Chief Executive Officer at Central Coast Council, directs the overarching strategic vision for the sixth largest urban area in Australia. Managing complex administrative operations, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between council policies and the long-term growth requirements of New South Wales. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board to optimize resource allocation across diverse municipal departments. By fostering collaboration among internal teams, Scott McLachlan drives the execution of large-scale infrastructure projects designed to maintain regional lifestyle standards. McLachlan oversees the implementation of governance frameworks that support transparency and fiscal responsibility. Through constant engagement with community stakeholders, the Chief Executive Officer shapes the future trajectory of the region. Ultimately, McLachlan secures the operational stability necessary for the council to deliver essential public services effectively while navigating the evolving demands of a rapidly expanding urban population.
    Scott McLachlan

    Emma Galea - Chief Financial Officer

    Emma Galea, the Chief Financial Officer at Central Coast Council, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the organization. Overseeing the financial planning for the sixth largest urban area in Australia, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that capital investments align with the strategic goals of New South Wales. This leadership role involves rigorous auditing of municipal expenditures and the development of sustainable revenue models. By optimizing financial reporting processes, Emma Galea drives efficiency across all council departments. Galea monitors economic indicators to mitigate risks associated with urban growth and infrastructure maintenance. Through precise financial forecasting, the Chief Financial Officer supports the Board in making data-driven decisions regarding public funding. Ultimately, Galea maintains the fiscal discipline required to sustain high-quality community services, ensuring that the council remains financially robust while addressing the diverse needs of the region.
    Emma Galea

    Jamal Ghannam - Chief Marketing Officer

    Jamal Ghannam, the Chief Marketing Officer at Central Coast Council, architects the communication strategies that define the public identity of the sixth largest urban area in Australia. Managing community outreach and digital engagement, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that residents remain informed about regional development and council initiatives in New South Wales. This leadership role involves crafting narratives that promote the unique lifestyle and growth opportunities within the region. By leveraging multi-channel campaigns, Jamal Ghannam drives public participation in local planning processes. Ghannam oversees the brand positioning of the council to foster trust and transparency with the diverse population. Through strategic media relations, the Chief Marketing Officer amplifies the impact of council programs and services. Ultimately, Ghannam secures strong community alignment with the organizational mission, ensuring that the public understands and supports the long-term vision for the Central Coast.

    Darrylen Law - Chief People Officer

    Darrylen Law, the Chief People Officer at Central Coast Council, directs the human capital strategy for the workforce supporting the sixth largest urban area in Australia. Overseeing talent acquisition, organizational development, and employee relations, the Chief People Officer ensures that the council maintains a high-performing team capable of delivering essential services across New South Wales. This leadership role involves cultivating a culture of excellence and inclusivity that attracts top-tier professionals to the public sector. By implementing robust training programs, Darrylen Law drives professional growth and operational efficiency within the municipal staff. Law monitors workforce metrics to optimize staffing levels in alignment with regional growth demands. Through proactive engagement with internal stakeholders, the Chief People Officer fosters a collaborative environment that supports the broader mission of the council. Ultimately, Law secures the organizational talent necessary to sustain high-quality service delivery for the entire community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Central Coast Council Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Central Coast Council?
    Central Coast Council is led by Scott McLachlan (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Emma Galea (Chief Financial Officer) and Jamal Ghannam (Chief Marketing Officer).
    Who is part of Central Coast Council’s executive team?
    The executive team of Central Coast Council includes leaders such as Scott McLachlan (Chief Executive Officer), Emma Galea (Chief Financial Officer), Jamal Ghannam (Chief Marketing Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Central Coast Council have?
    Central Coast Council has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Central Coast Council’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Central Coast Council includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief People Officer.