Karen Doran has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the National Capital Authority (NCA) for five years, beginning in April.

Ms Doran succeeds Sally Barnes, who leaves the position at the end of this month.

Ms Doran was the acting Director-General of Transport Canberra and City Services, and acting Chief Project Officer at Major Projects Canberra. She has worked in the ACT Treasury, and in the Land/Economic Development, Health and Justice, and Community Safety Directorates.

“I am honoured and excited to be taking on the role of Chief Executive of the NCA,” Ms Doran said.

“Canberra fulfils an important role as our national capital; a historic legacy which I respect and am committed to preserving while allowing this unique city to continue to grow and evolve, for the benefit of all Australians.

“I look forward to fostering collaborative working relationships with stakeholders and to productive engagement processes with our community.”

Kristy McBain MP, Federal Minister for Territories, said that Ms Doran’s appointment heralds a new era for the NCA and the ACT.

“The Chief Executive position of the NCA is central to how we safeguard Griffin’s vision as we grow the nation’s capital – which is why I’m excited that we’ve been able to attract someone with such calibre and experience to this role.

“Karen Doran not only has a passion and understanding for what makes Canberra such a unique and extraordinary city – she brings a wealth of experience in public sector leadership and governance that will underpin her success in forging a fresh direction for the NCA.

“Karen’s experience overseeing the roll-out of critical projects across the ACT will also ensure she’s well-positioned to collaborate with the ACT Government and other key stakeholders to progress the Australian Government’s priorities for the nation’s capital.”

The Chief Executive, the Chair, and three additional members make up the NCA Board, all of whom are appointed by the Governor-General on advice from the Australian Government.

“The role of the NCA in supporting Canberra’s position as a national capital we can all be proud of is vitally important,” chair Terry Weber said. “The ACT is not only Australia’s seat of Government, but is a symbol of the many aspirations, passions, and values that make our country great.

“Ms Doran will bring important rigour and leadership to the role, particularly around governance, financial management, government processes, procurement, and project management – and I am sure, will represent the Authority and our nation with distinction.”