When the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) delivers its next strategic plan in 2026–27, a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will be at the helm. 

Current RTA CEO Jennifer Smith told staff this week that she has decided not to renew her contract when it expires at the end of July 2025. 

‘By then, I will have been CEO at the RTA for more than 7 years,’ Ms Smith said. ‘The RTA’s new strategic plan will be developed over the next 12 to 18 months, and I feel it's a good time for me to step aside so the Board can work on the new plan with the new CEO.’ 

Image

Ms Smith said she looked forward to spending time with her family while ‘considering what’s next for me from a career and family perspective’.  

RTA Board Chair Steve Ryan said Ms Smith had been instrumental in driving transformation that respected the rights and obligations of all renting parties while supporting the capable and passionate staff at the RTA. 

‘Jennifer’s absence will be keenly felt as she is taking a wealth of organisational leadership and sector experience with her,’ Mr Ryan said. 

‘She has led the organisation to improve the customer and employee experience, administer recent changes to Queensland rental laws, and maintain the RTA’s integrity, all the while regulating, educating and engaging the sector.  

‘We are beginning a nationwide recruitment campaign for a new CEO, and I am confident of a seamless transition of office later in the year.’  

Ms Smith’s early announcement will allow for a robust search for the next CEO before she steps down at the end of July. 

‘As we prepare for this transition, I remain fully committed to delivering on the RTA’s priorities for the year ahead.’  

Ms Smith expressed her gratitude for the support shown to her by RTA frontline staff and those working behind the scenes. 

‘Our wonderful staff work hard every day to support hundreds of thousands of Queenslanders on their rental journey,’ she said.

Visit SmartJobs to view the recruitment ad for the RTA’s next chief executive officer.