About Dorset
We are a local government organisation located in North East Tasmania, dedicated to fostering an inclusive, thriving, and connected community. The Dorset Municipality offers a unique lifestyle, combining untamed wilderness, rugged mountain ranges, spectacular waterfalls, rich agricultural landscapes, and stunning beaches, all right on your doorstep. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate world‑class attractions such as the Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails and the renowned Barnbougle Links Golf Resort. The real highlight is the supportive and inclusive community, which prides itself on fostering a close‑knit environment where everyone feels welcome.
About the role
Reporting to the Director Community and Development Services (the Director), this management role provides leadership across Council's Planning, Building, Environmental Health and Animal Management functions. You will lead a team of qualified professionals, deliver high‑quality technical services, exercise delegated statutory authority, and contribute to positive outcomes for the Dorset community.
This is a strategic, hands‑on leadership role requiring strong technical capability in statutory planning, sound judgement, and the ability to operate confidently in a complex regulatory and legislative environment. As Manager Community and Development Services, you will:
Responsibilities
* Lead, mentor and support a high‑performing, multi‑disciplinary team of professionals
* Provide high‑level technical and statutory advice to the Management Team, Councillors, staff and the community
* Oversee regulatory and compliance activities across the portfolio, including enforcement actions under delegated authority
* Work collaboratively with the Director to develop, implement and review strategic and statutory planning frameworks
* Establish and review policies, procedures and operating principles to support consistent and effective service delivery
* Build strong relationships with community members, government agencies and industry stakeholders
* Drive innovative, solutions‑focused approaches to statutory planning and regulatory services
* Prepare and present reports and recommendations to Council and community forums as required
Our ideal candidate has
* Tertiary qualifications in Planning (essential), with strong technical capability in statutory planning
* Experience in a senior professional or management role within a regulatory, planning or local government environment
* Proven ability to lead and manage qualified professionals across multiple disciplines
* Sound understanding of regulatory frameworks, compliance and enforcement processes
* High‑level written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing reports for Council
* Strong judgement, integrity and the ability to make independent decisions under delegated authority
* A collaborative leadership style and a commitment to fostering a positive, outcome‑focused workplace culture
What's on offer
* Permanent full‑time employment with work‑from‑home flexibility
* Competitive annual salary range of $115,370.84 to $123,074.64 plus 12% superannuation
* Relocation and/or travel allowance, negotiable based on experience and travel requirements
* Strategic leadership role with the opportunity to shape Council's regulatory and planning services
* Fortnightly or monthly rostered days off to support work‑life balance
* Professional development opportunities to enhance your leadership and technical skills
* Lifestyle benefits of living in Northeast Tasmania.
To apply
email your resume and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with this role to Applications close Sunday, 15 February 2026.
Application will include the following question:
Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?
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