Mr Stoermer, born in California, has a strong background in local government including a five-year stint as corporate business director at the City of Melbourne. He was most recently Chief Executive Officer at Nillumbik Shire Council in Melbourne's northern suburbs.

Mr Stoermer, who also ran high profile wealth management firm Fordham Group and was General Manager at global accountancy company Moore Stephens, said the Douglas Shire role was his 'dream job'.

“I had my first holiday at Port Douglas in 1999 and I have been coming back ever since,” he said.

“This has been my intention for a long time - it really is a dream job in a dream place.”

Mr Stoermer graduated with a Master of Finance from New York University and BA High Honours from University of California at Berkeley.

He also recently completed his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Accreditation exams and expects full accreditation shortly.

Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu said Mr Stoermer was a strategically strong executive and a proven leader.

“Mark is a gifted corporate executive who has used his impressive financial credentials and marketing brilliance to excel in local government and the private sector,” Cr Leu said.

“Council is extremely confident he will deliver key outcomes that shape the future of Douglas Shire.”

There was 35 applicants for the CEO role vacated by Ms Cardew, who announced in March she would be taking over as CEO at Cook Shire Council.

Mr Stoermer, who was interviewed by all Councillors before being appointed, said he brings with him a passion for preserving the environment and growing the tourism industry.

"I look forward to working closely with the Mayor and Councillors to harness this passion and deliver key outcomes for this beautiful region."

He will start in the role in the next financial year.

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