Debbie McNamara

Debbie was appointed to lead Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) in mid-2021, the Queensland Government’s land use planning and property development agency. EDQ embraces partnerships across government, industry and the community to lead and deliver infrastructure and property projects for Queensland's economic benefit. It delivers across a range of initiatives including large-scale urban renewal, regional residential, enterprise and infrastructure projects.

This role enables her to achieve the principal aim that underlies her career of making a meaningful contribution to the well-being and economic prosperity of her community.

Debbie is a specialist executive leader within the fields of property and infrastructure, delivering large-scale mixed-use developments across the public and private sectors in both Australia and the UK. 

With over 25 years’ experience, Debbie has held a range of executive leadership roles across large scale urban regeneration, social infrastructure and economic development activities; underpinned by a fundamental commitment to achieve exceptional outcomes; a values-based approach to leadership and life-long professional development. 

An Adjunct Professor with The University of Queensland, Debbie recently completed an intensive leadership program at the Harvard Kennedy School for Senior Executives in State and Local Government. 

Prior to her return to Australian in 2016, Debbie held Chief Executive and non-Executive Director roles in public private organisations in Scotland. She brings international experience in building lasting partnerships across government, investors, industry and community organisations.