Central Highlands appoints new CEO  

Posted on August 18, 2026

Following an independent, nationwide recruitment process, Central Highlands Regional Council (CHRC) has today appointed Jason Hoolihan as its new permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO). 

The role attracted more than 70 applications from across Australia and after the first round of interviews, Mr Hoolihan was one of the final 3 shortlisted candidates interviewed by the Mayor and councillors. 

Mr Hoolihan has called the Central Highlands home since 2003 and joined council in April 2015. He has held the role of Director Operations (formerly General Manager Infrastructure and Utilities) since July 2020. 

He has extensive experience in civil engineering after being employed with an engineering business, the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Central Highlands Regional Council.  He has experience in road construction and maintenance, flood mitigation, project management, and with looking after water and wastewater infrastructure.  

‘This was a robust national recruitment campaign, and Mr Hoolihan’s appointment reflects the strength of his management experience, technical expertise and proven commitment to the Central Highlands,’ Mayor Moriarty said. 

‘Mr Hoolihan appointment offers continuity – He knows the people, the towns and communities across our region.  He knows the staff and operations of council having held several senior management roles including General Manager Infrastructure and Utilities, Director Operations as well as Acting CEO and Acting General Manager of Communities Department.   

‘Mr Hoolihan joined Council in 2015 and worked his way up from manager to General Manager and now CEO.  This is a great story of CHRC supporting the career progression of a local staff member and his appointment brings a renewed positive focus for the organisation in delivering services to the community. 

Mayor Moriarty also acknowledged acting CEO Graeme Kanofski for his steady leadership of the organisation since May. 

Mr Kanofski will remain with CHRC until Mr Hoolihan takes over in early September.