Public sector leader Karen Doran will take up a five year-term as the new chief executive of the National Capital Authority (NCA), heralding what the government says will be a new era for the federal statutory authority.

The NCA is responsible for developing and maintaining the national capital and supporting Canberra’s heritage.

It oversees a diverse range of areas including maintaining the strategic plan for Canberra in line with the National Capital Plan as the Territory continues to grow, and managing local government functions on NCA land.

Territories minister Kristy McBain says Ms Doran brings extensive experience in public sector roles and her expertise in public sector governance would bring a fresh approach to the NCA’s role as trustee of the nation’s capital.

“Karen Doran not only has a passion and understanding for what makes Canberra such a unique and extraordinary city – she brings a wealth of experience in public sector leadership and governance that will underpin her success in forging a fresh direction for the NCA,” the minister said.

“Karen’s experience overseeing the roll-out of critical projects across the ACT will also ensure she’s well-positioned to collaborate with the ACT Government and other key stakeholders to progress the Australian Government’s priorities for the nation’s capital.”

Ms Doran began her career in the private sector but went on to work  across a variety of Directorates in the ACT Government, including in Treasury, Land/Economic Development, Health and Justice and Community Safety.

Most recently, she served as acting Director-General, Transport Canberra and City Services, and acting Chief Project Officer at Major Projects Canberra.

She replaces Sally Barnes, the former director of National Parks at Parks Australia and the CEO of the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, who last year announced her resignation effective on February 29.

Ms Doran said she was looking forward to taking on the new role.

“Canberra fulfils an important role as our national capital, a historic legacy which I respect and am committed to preserving while allowing this unique city to continue to grow and evolve, for the benefit of all Australians,” she said.

“I look forward to fostering collaborative working relationships with stakeholders and to productive engagement processes with our community.

Ms Doran begins her new job on April 2.

The NCA Board is made up of a Chair, Chief Executive and three additional members, all of whom are appointed by the Governor-General on advice from the government, with the CEO responsible for strategic management.