May 28, 2025
Toowoomba Regional Council has appointed former National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) boss Sal Petroccitto OAM as Council’s new Chief Executive Officer.
Mr Petroccitto resigned from the NHVR in January after almost 11 years at the organisation.
Toowoomba Mayor Geoff McDonald said Mr Petroccitto was unanimously appointed by Councillors following a national and international recruitment search.
“Council was on the hunt for an accomplished leader with a business mind and a community heart and Sal is absolutely that person,” Mayor McDonald said.
“With over 30 years of executive leadership experience across public and private sectors, including more than a decade as CEO of the NHVR, Sal is well known for delivering cultural transformation and strategic outcomes in complex environments.
“Sal has foundational local government experience having held senior positions with Brisbane City Council, along with executive roles with Department of Transport and Main Roads while most recently transforming the NHVR into an award-winning customer service champion.
“Sal is no stranger to the region having grown up on the Southern Downs and he brings the skillset to maximise the array of opportunities on the horizon.
“That includes the special opportunity for us in becoming an Olympic Region in 2032, just seven years from now. Sal is well placed to draw upon his extensive leadership experience to assist us to take advantage of the delivery of new and upgraded infrastructure,” he said.
Mr Petroccitto said he was excited by the opportunity to lead TRC into the future.
“My leadership philosophy is built on authenticity, valuing people, and delivering measurable outcomes.
“I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to bring my strategic leadership capabilities to TRC and work with the Mayor, Councillors and executive leadership team to drive and advance strategic priorities while leading the organisation.”
Mr Petroccitto will spend time with councillors and the executive leadership team this week before formally taking up the reins on July 14.
