In this episode of The Development Drum, Julian Simmonds reflects on his journey through various levels of public and private sector leadership roles, to becoming the CEO of Economic Development Queensland (EDQ). He explains how building his career from the ground up required navigating the distinct landscapes of local and federal politics, and how early transitions served as a pathway to deep industry engagement. Julian also provides a broader overview of the high-stakes complexities of planning systems, the operational resilience required to sustain development momentum during a housing crisis, and the strategic leadership behind driving customer-focused organisational turnarounds. Giving a lighthearted glimpse into his life outside of public service, he shares how he manages a busy household alongside his wife, tackles the unique challenges of modern parenting, and unwinds with hobbies like gaming and boating. It’s an insightful conversation on how Julian has focused on partnership-based solutions and market delivery with the same problem-solving drive he practiced throughout his career.
Guest Bio: For over 15 years, Julian has driven partnership-based solutions to empower city-shaping sectors across private and public sector organisations to support the future of Queensland’s communities and cities. Public sector career highlights include Julian’s tenure at Brisbane City Council where he chaired critical portfolios in planning, finance, and transport, including as his role Planning and Economic Development Chairman.
In the private sector, highlights include his executive leadership roles at CavCorp and Stanbroke where he directed mixed-use, retail and industrial development projects exceeding $100 million in value, with a focus on high-quality urban precincts, place-making, and end-to-end project delivery. As EDQ CEO, Julian is a purpose-driven leader focused on creating a more efficient and customer-focused organisation delivering more housing to Queenslanders.
Connect with Julian Simmonds:
About Your Host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UDIA Queensland, a role she has held since 2018. She brings extensive experience in policy, stakeholder engagement, and research, and has played a key role in shaping state and local government policy. Kirsty is passionate about driving positive change in the development industry to create greener, smarter, and more resilient communities.
Support the Show:
Missed Last Episode? Catch up here: https://udiaqld.com.au/engage/resource/season-6-episode-3-with-bob-sharpless/
Get in Touch: We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have feedback, guest suggestions, or sponsorship enquiries, reach us at udia@udiaqld.com.au
Recorded and Produced at our The Podcast Boss podcast studio in Brisbane
