General Manager & Directors

Michael Jackson – Acting General Manager

Michael is an accomplished professional with over 25 years of experience in the public and private sectors. Michael joined Kempsey Shire Council in October 2022 as a valuable addition to Executive team.

Prior to this, he served as the Design and Projects Manager at Penrith City Council, where he oversaw the delivery of Major Capital Works for over 10 years, including recreation, public domain, commercial, transport, and drainage infrastructure projects.

Throughout his career, Michael has delivered major capital works while also leading transformation projects, cultural change, and business improvements. His career began in commercial office and retail fitout, working on projects for major financial institutions, before he moved to Local Government to expand his scope of work.

Michael's passion point is business improvement, which he has incorporated into all his roles, including his secondments to review and enhance systems and processes. 

Daniel Thoroughgood – Director Corporate & Commercial

Daniel has been an integral part of Kempsey Shire Council since 2011, beginning as Team Leader of Information Technology before progressing to Group Manager of Governance and Information Services in 2013.

With extensive experience across a range of industries—including IT, telecommunications, health and local government—Daniel has worked in diverse settings, from family businesses and small enterprises to multinational corporations, charities and the public sector.

Daniel has a strong connection to the Macleay Valley, where he has spent most of his life.

In addition to his role at Kempsey Shire Council, he is actively involved in the industry as a board member of Statewide Mutual, representing the Mid North Coast region.

Dylan Reeves – Acting Director Operations & Planning

Wes Trotter - Director Utilities

Wes has more than 25 years of experience in the water and wastewater industry. He joined Kempsey Shire Council in 2017, as a Process Engineer, before working his way up to Manager and Group Manager roles.

Previously, Wes held various positions including Maintenance Fitter Australian Capital Territory Energy and Water (ACTEW), Water Industry Operator ActewAGL and Senior Shift Supervisor Icon Water.

With his industry wide experience, Wes understands the practical implications of operations, maintenance and complex capital projects.

Wes is also an Executive Committee member of the NSW Water Directorate