Experience

With over three decades of executive leadership, David Waddell has guided complex organisations and projects through significant transition and growth across government, infrastructure, and community sectors.

He brings crisis-tested judgement, a strong governance record, and seeks sustainable, stakeholder-focused outcomes.

His experience spans board, interim CEO, and advisory roles—delivering stability, strategic clarity, and real impact in challenging environments.

Leadership & Continuity

Steady Leadership Through Crisis

David provided trusted leadership guiding Orange City Council through prolonged drought and pandemic challenges, ensuring operational stability and uninterrupted delivery of core services.

Building Resilient Operations

By establishing an internal Project Management Office, he enhanced project consistency and preparedness, enabling the organisation to sustain momentum and adapt swiftly during change.

Infrastructure Expertise and Strategic Delivery

With a background in engineering and urban planning, David has successfully led complex infrastructure developments and multi-disciplinary teams, blending technical acumen with strategic oversight.

Relevant Projects:

  • Led Orange City Council as CEO during drought and COVID-19, ensuring smooth continuity of all council operations and services.

  • Established an internal Project Management Office to build project delivery consistency and improve crisis response.

  • Successfully managed the 1,700-lot Shiralee suburb development and the 330-lot Landcom Redmond Place project with a focus on sustainability and affordability.

  • Modernised Council’s operations and workforce through a comprehensive culture change program involving over 800 staff

  • Project-managed and authored the Environmental Impact Statement that secured Federal approval for ANSTO’s $300 million OPAL replacement nuclear reactor.

  • Led the design, environmental assessment and approval pathway for the $3 billion Sydney Desalination Plant, producing the Environmental Assessment that secured government approval.

Governance & Stewardship

Strengthening Board Governance and Compliance

David brings extensive board and committee experience, having served in leadership roles that improved governance frameworks and compliance standards. His tenure includes chairing committees focused on audit, risk, and strategic oversight, where he consistently fostered transparency and accountability.

Building Trust Through Values and Stewardship

Integrity and stewardship underpin David’s governance approach. He navigates complex stakeholder landscapes by prioritising ethical decision-making and long-term organisational health, earning trust from boards, executives, and communities alike.

Driving Governance Reform and Effectiveness

David has led initiatives to streamline governance processes and optimise board performance. His leadership has helped organisations adapt to evolving regulatory environments, enhancing decision-making quality and organisational resilience.

Relevant Projects:

  • Led governance reform efforts at Orange City Council to enhance transparency and community trust.

  • Served on the Housing Plus and Wangarang Industries Boards, contributing to governance improvements and strategic oversight.

  • Served on the Kinross Wolaroi School Board, including as Risk Convenor.

  • Chaired the Central West Councils Environment and Waterways Alliance.

Community & Infrastructure

Championing Climate Action and ESG Initiatives

David has a strong record of integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into organisational strategy. Notably, he developed a landmark regional renewable power purchase agreement for Orange City Council, advancing clean energy adoption across public sector entities. His leadership in climate resilience planning included integrating sustainable practices into local government operations, helping councils prepare for and adapt to increasing climate risks.

Fostering Inclusive Community Engagement

David prioritises deep, meaningful engagement with diverse community stakeholders, ensuring projects reflect local values and long-term social outcomes. Through his stewardship, the Orange Regional Art Gallery extension, Orange Regional Museum, Conservatorium and Planetarium (under construction) were delivered as a cultural hub that enhances community connection and supports the arts. His approach consistently strengthens stakeholder trust and drives collaboration between government, industry, and the community.

Delivering Lasting Social and Environmental Impact

Beyond high-profile projects, David’s leadership extends to significant regional environmental initiatives. He has been active in regional bodies like the Central West Councils Environment and Waterways Alliance, which focuses on sustainable waterway management and biodiversity protection. These efforts not only protect natural assets but also enhance social licence and community well-being in the regions he serves.

Relevant Projects:

  • Developed a regional renewable power purchase agreement, increasing clean energy use in multiple local government and driving Orange City Council’s electricity use to 100% renewable.

  • Was CEO delivering the Orange Regional Gallery extension and the Regional Conservatorium and Planetarium fostering community engagement in the arts and providing a landmark cultural facility.

  • Guided comprehensive climate resilience planning and sustainability integration across council operations, improving environmental outcomes.

  • Participated actively in the Central West Councils Environment and Waterways Alliance, focused on biodiversity, waterway health, and sustainability.

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