New council CEO 'one of our own'

Ms Phelan will take over as chief executive officer from Manjeet Grewal, who also was an internal appointment.

Ms Phelan, who has an extensive background in senior leadership positions in local government in Sydney and regional NSW, joined Sutherland Shire Council five years ago.

Councillors unanimously supported the appointment.

Mayor Carmelo Pesce said Ms Phelan was an invaluable member of council's senior leadership team, who had shown herself to be an exemplary leader and was respected by all those with whom she worked.

"Among a competitive field of applicants, Clare was the standout candidate, outlining a compelling vision of how she plans to continue delivering for all those who live and work in Sutherland Shire," he said.

"Council has a strong corporate culture of identifying and developing talent within our own ranks, so it's seems only fitting that councillors voted unanimously to support one of our own to take up the vital and challenging role of leading our organisation."

Ms Phelan said she was "passionate about delivering sound civic administration" and recognised "the incredible impact that local government has in the lives of all those we serve".

"While I've lived and worked all over regional and metropolitan NSW as I have followed my career, I've chosen to live and raise a family here in Sutherland Shire because it's such a welcoming and vibrant community," she said. "I look forward to continuing in the footsteps set out by council's first female CEO Manjeet Grewal."