Central Coast Council Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Central Coast Council has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, finance, 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 excellence.

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. McLachlan manages complex inter-departmental operations to ensure alignment with regional growth mandates and community service standards. By coordinating with the governing body, the Chief Executive Officer facilitates the execution of long-term infrastructure projects and public policy initiatives. This leadership role involves balancing fiscal responsibility with the maintenance of high-quality lifestyle standards across the region. Scott McLachlan drives organizational efficiency by streamlining administrative processes and fostering collaboration between municipal departments. Through rigorous oversight of public assets and service delivery, the Chief Executive Officer secures the operational stability required for sustainable development. Ultimately, McLachlan ensures that all council activities support the broader mission of enhancing the quality of life for residents throughout the New South Wales territory.
    Scott McLachlan

    Emma Galea - Chief Financial Officer

    Emma Galea, the Chief Financial Officer at Central Coast Council, directs the fiscal planning and budgetary management for the organization. Galea oversees the allocation of resources to support critical infrastructure projects and essential public services across the region. By monitoring revenue streams and expenditure patterns, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the long-term financial health of the council. This leadership role involves providing the executive team with precise financial forecasting to guide decision-making regarding urban development and maintenance. Emma Galea drives accountability by implementing robust auditing processes and financial controls that protect public funds. Through the management of complex capital investment portfolios, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of regional facilities and services. Ultimately, Galea maintains the economic stability necessary for the council to fulfill the mandate of supporting growth and lifestyle quality within the New South Wales area.
    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 region. Ghannam manages community engagement programs and digital outreach initiatives to ensure residents remain informed about local government services and urban planning developments. By analyzing public sentiment and demographic trends, the Chief Marketing Officer crafts messaging that promotes regional growth and tourism. This leadership role involves coordinating with various departments to unify the brand voice across all public-facing platforms. Jamal Ghannam drives awareness of council-led projects, ensuring transparency and fostering trust between the administration and the community. Through the implementation of data-driven communication campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer optimizes the reach of essential public information. Ultimately, Ghannam strengthens the connection between the council and the diverse population residing within the New South Wales jurisdiction, supporting the overall mission of community cohesion.

    Darrylen Law - Chief People Officer

    Darrylen Law, the Chief People Officer at Central Coast Council, directs the human capital strategy to ensure a high-performing workforce capable of delivering essential municipal services. Law manages talent acquisition, professional development, and organizational culture initiatives that align with the council's commitment to regional excellence. By fostering an environment of inclusivity and operational efficiency, the Chief People Officer supports the diverse teams responsible for maintaining the lifestyle of the sixth largest urban area in Australia. This leadership role involves designing performance management frameworks that incentivize productivity and innovation among staff. Darrylen Law drives employee engagement by implementing wellness programs and career progression pathways that retain top talent. Through the oversight of labor relations and workforce planning, the Chief People Officer ensures that the organization possesses the necessary expertise to execute complex urban projects. Ultimately, Law builds the internal capacity required to sustain the long-term growth objectives of the council.

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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.