The NSW Reconstruction Authority has appointed Infrastructure NSW CEO Simon Draper as its permanent CEO.

Mr Draper will head the newly established disaster recovery agency, having served in senior roles across the NSW public service sector, including as the Secretary of the Department of Industry and Deputy Secretary of the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

The statutory body was established in December last year following recommendations from the independent Flood Inquiry to assist with the state’s preparation and recovery for natural disaster events.

Mr Draper will take over responsibilities from Mick Cassel, who served as Interim CEO.

“The Authority’s remit represents a unique alignment between disaster recovery and strategic planning which has not previously existed in our State, and as the CEO, Simon will be responsible for working across the Government, with industry partners and our communities,” NSW Minister for Planning and Homes Anthony Roberts said.