Central Highlands Regional Council | Emerald, QLD | $210K–$252K TRP
Public Sector People is partnering with Central Highlands Regional Council to appoint a Manager Community & Cultural Services, an influential leadership role based in Emerald.
An opportunity to lead, influence and make a difference.
Take ownership of a broad portfolio of services that matter to communities across the Central Highlands, with the freedom to develop people, strengthen performance and shape future priorities.
Council is seeking a confident, practical leader who can bring teams together, solve complex problems and turn strategic direction into tangible results.
With key initiatives underway, you will build on established foundations, strengthen governance and capability, and make a lasting contribution to the organisation and its communities.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Director Communities, you will lead libraries, arts and culture, community grants, regional events, youth programs, First Nations initiatives, community relationships and human and social recovery.
This varied portfolio calls for a leader who can connect different functions, set clear priorities and deliver outcomes. You do not need to be a technical specialist in every service area; strong leadership and good governance are essential.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Providing strategic and operational leadership across the Community and Cultural Services portfolio
- Coaching and developing multidisciplinary teams and strengthening accountability and performance
- Improving the quality and effectiveness of community programs and public-facing services
- Progressing strategies and initiatives across libraries, arts, culture and heritage
- Overseeing community grants and aligning programs with Council and community priorities
- Managing budgets, resources, service performance and financial accountability
- Building partnerships with community organisations, Traditional Owners and government agencies
- Providing considered advice to the Executive Leadership Team and elected representatives
- Strengthening governance, systems, planning and operational processes
- Identifying practical opportunities for innovation and measurable community outcomes
Above all, you will be a capable people leader who gets results.
You will thrive in a complex service environment, communicate clearly, navigate competing priorities and bring people with you through change while setting high expectations.
Ideally, you will bring:
- Proven leadership experience in government, community services or a complex service organisation
- Experience managing multidisciplinary teams and building capability in others
- Good governance, financial management and operational planning skills
- Ability to translate strategy into practical programs and measurable outcomes
- Strong communication, negotiation and stakeholder engagement capability
- Confidence working with executives, elected representatives and diverse communities
- Sound judgement and an ability to manage competing expectations and priorities
- Experience delivering positive community outcomes and service improvements
- A collaborative, practical approach to change and continuous improvement
- Relevant tertiary qualifications and/or substantial comparable leadership experience
This may also suit an experienced Coordinator or senior leader from a larger organisation who is ready to step into broader management responsibility.
Why Central Highlands Regional Council?
This is your opportunity to influence more than day-to-day operations: shape a diverse portfolio and the way services evolve across the region.
Council is progressing initiatives across libraries, arts, youth, heritage, events and community grants. You will build on this work, strengthen your team and improve the experience of the communities Council serves.
You will have room to introduce fresh ideas while working within a supportive and accountable local government environment.
For a leader motivated by variety, problem-solving and community impact, this is an opportunity to make the role your own.
The opportunity offers:
- $210,000–$252,000 Total Remuneration Package
- A visible senior leadership role across a broad and varied portfolio
- Relocation assistance for candidates moving to the region
- Potential access to Council accommodation
If you are ready to develop people, improve services and contribute to the future of the Central Highlands, we would welcome a confidential discussion.
Be part of something that matters, with like-minded people who truly care. One Place. Many Paths. Choose Yours Here.
Apply Now
To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter via the 'Apply Now' button or contact:
Adrian Holder
Lead Search & Select Consultant
Public Sector People
M: 0410 510 431
E: adrian@publicsectorpeople.com.au
Applications close Tuesday 3rd November at 5pm
