NSW state insurer icare has started the process of recruiting a new CEO and MD following the departure of John Nagle.

The role has been publicly advertised and executive search firm Boyden selected to manage the appointment.

Incoming Chairman John Robertson says the recruitment of icare’s CEO is one of his “top priorities”.

“The Treasurer has given me a clear mandate as incoming Chair of icare to ensure key actions are met to help manage this leadership transition as smoothly as possible for all stakeholders and to ensure icare is delivering on its commitment to support injured workers,” Mr Robertson said.

“Ensuring we have the right leader at the helm of the organisation at this critical time is essential to driving forward the necessary improvements.”

icare has been subject to intense scrutiny and criticism since a joint investigation in July by ABC’s Four Corners program and The Age/Sydney Morning Herald newspapers.

Mr Nagle resigned last month after a parliamentary committee grilling over his approach to conflicts of interest and the performance of the organisation. Group Executive Don Ferguson was named as interim CEO and MD.

The role is being advertised via the IworkforNSW website as well as in print media nationally.

The successful candidate will need to demonstrate strong leadership “to build trust, respect and belief in icare”, the ad says.

“The Sydney-based Chief Executive will possess significant leadership experience within the insurance industry as well as outstanding communication and stakeholder management skills.

“They will also have the ability to motivate icare’s people, external service providers and all stakeholders to partner in the ambitions and aspirations of icare.”

Applications close at midnight on October 18, and the new CEO and MD is expected to be selected before the end of the year.