Mockler, who has been acting Council CEO since January, joined the City of Adelaide in 2002. Originally from the UK, she has a background in law and a masters in public policy management.

Her appointment comes after former Council CEO Mark Goldstone announced his resignation in April due to illness.

Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor said the decision to appoint Mockler to the role permanently was “unanimous” from the Council’s selection panel.

“There is no doubt that Clare Mockler is the right person to lead the City of Adelaide as we recover from the pandemic and deliver on our strategic vision for the city and North Adelaide,” Verschoor said in a statement.

“She has demonstrated strong financial acumen and strategic thinking, with our budget forecast back into the black and is spearheading important changes to the organisation.”

The lord mayor – who is facing an election challenge from Councillor Phil Martin next year – said Mockler’s appointment marked only the second time in the Adelaide City Council’s history that women had held the position of both lord mayor and CEO.

Mockler said her key priorities would be delivering on the Council’s 2020-24 Strategic Plan, activating the city and realising the City of Adelaide’s commitment to be the “lowest cost capital city with the least red tape”.

“Right now capital cities across Australia are facing incredible challenges,” Mockler said.

“I am committed to providing strong and decisive leadership for the City and North Adelaide, to boost recovery and enhance our global reputation as a great place to live, work, study, visit and invest.”

Her appointment comes after a report made public last week into the Council’s culture found it was “dysfunctional, frustrating and aggressive”.