GAPDL Strengthens Leadership as Organisation Enters Next Phase of Growth
Read Time:
Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Limited (GAPDL) has entered a new chapter, with the Board confirming a strengthened leadership team to guide the organisation through its next phase of growth and the delivery of the Gladstone Region’s long-term visitor economy vision.
Following a successful period as Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dee Dalton has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 July 2026.
The appointment follows a planned leadership transition, with former Chief Executive Officer Nicola Smith moving into the role of Manager, Marketing and Partnerships. Following the birth of her daughter last year, Ms Smith made the decision to return to her passion for destination marketing, industry engagement and strategic partnerships, where she will continue to play a key leadership role in shaping the Gladstone Region’s visitor economy while balancing her growing family.
Joining the leadership team is Peter Sharpe, who has been appointed Manager, Finance and Operations, bringing extensive experience in finance, governance and organisational leadership.
GAPDL Chair Rob Gibb said the appointments reflected the organisation’s continued evolution and its commitment to ensuring it remains well positioned to support the Gladstone Region into the future.
“The past 12 months have been transformational for GAPDL. Together we’ve strengthened governance, secured long-term funding, completed the Gladstone Region Tourism Strategic Plan, expanded strategic partnerships and continued delivering initiatives that support both the visitor economy and broader regional development.”
“The Board is incredibly proud of what has been achieved and confident these appointments provide the leadership capability needed to deliver our strategic priorities while ensuring the organisation continues to evolve alongside the needs of our members, partners and the Gladstone Region.”
Mr Gibb said one of the Board’s priorities had been ensuring continuity of leadership while retaining the experience and expertise that has contributed to the organisation’s success.
“Nicola has made an outstanding contribution as Chief Executive Officer and has played a significant role in positioning the organisation where it is today. When Nicola expressed her desire to transition into a role that aligned with her passion for destination marketing and partnerships, while also supporting this stage of her family’s journey, the Board was pleased to support that decision.”
“Importantly, the Gladstone Region continues to benefit from Nicola’s leadership, creativity and industry relationships, while Dee steps into the Chief Executive Officer role following an exceptional period leading the organisation as Acting CEO.”
Mr Gibb said Ms Dalton had earned the confidence of the Board through her leadership, strategic thinking and collaborative approach.
“Dee has successfully led the organisation through a period of significant change while building strong relationships with government, industry, community and our members. She understands the opportunities ahead for our region and has a clear vision for how GAPDL can continue creating value for the visitor economy and the broader community.”
Ms Dalton said she was honoured to be appointed Chief Executive Officer and acknowledged the support of the Board, employees, members, partners and volunteers.
“It’s a privilege to lead an organisation with such passionate people and such an important role in our region.”
“Over the past year we’ve focused on building strong foundations – strengthening governance, securing long-term funding, developing a clear strategic direction and investing in the capability of our people. Those foundations position us well for the opportunities ahead.”
Ms Dalton said tourism was increasingly recognised as a driver of economic development, liveability and investment attraction.
“A thriving visitor economy supports local businesses, creates jobs, encourages investment and contributes to making the Gladstone Region an even better place to live, work and visit. At the same time, we’re proud to work collaboratively across a range of initiatives that strengthen our region and the communities we serve.”
Ms Dalton paid tribute to Ms Smith’s leadership and welcomed the opportunity to continue working alongside her.
“Nic leaves an outstanding legacy as Chief Executive Officer. She has helped shape the organisation we are today, and I’m incredibly grateful that we’ll continue working together as part of the leadership team. Her expertise in destination marketing, partnerships and stakeholder engagement will continue to be instrumental as we deliver our strategic priorities.”
The leadership team will now focus on delivering the Tourism Strategic Plan, implementing the Gladstone Region Destination Management Plan once launched in August, progressing destination repositioning and brand development, strengthening tourism industry capability, growing strategic partnerships and advocating for investment that supports the long-term prosperity of the Gladstone Region.
Mr Gibb said the Board remained committed to ensuring GAPDL continued to adapt to the changing needs of industry and the community.
“Like any contemporary organisation, we’ll continue to review our capability and how we work to ensure we remain agile, responsive and focused on delivering value for our members, partners and the Gladstone Region.”
“What won’t change is our commitment to collaboration, innovation and ensuring GAPDL continues to make a positive contribution to the economic and social prosperity of our region.”
ENDS
