The Queensland Premier Anna Bligh has announced a reshuffle of senior public servants that will result in new leadership of three departments: Premier and Cabinet, Local Government and Planning, and Public Works.

 

After three-and-a-half years as Premier and Cabinet director general, Ken Smith has been appointed to the London-based position of Queensland's Agent General and Trade Commissioner for Europe and Africa.

 

Mr Smith had previously been appointed to the position in September 2006 by then-Premier Peter Beattie.

 

A recruitment firm has been appointed and a shortlist for Mr Smith's replacement was expected to be finalised within weeks, Ms Bligh said.

 

Ms Bligh also announced that acting associate director general of the Department of Transport and Main Roads Jack Noye has been appointed acting director general of the Department of Local Government and Planning.

 

In addition, Ms Bligh said Department of Public Works director general Mal Grierson would take extended leave from April 18 to June, when he will take up the position of Chief Information Officer.

 

Natalie MacDonald has been appointed director general of the Department of Public Works.