* Drive organisational growth, financial sustainability & meaningful services
* Deliver strong governance, strategic leadership & outstanding community outcomes
* Beautiful regional location just one hour from Adelaide
About Coorong District Council...
The Coorong District Council, based in Tailem Bend just one hour east of Adelaide via the southeastern freeway, offers a practical regional lifestyle with easy access to the city. The district spans 8,830 square kilometres of predominantly agricultural land, extending southwest to the Coorong National Park and east into the Mallee. With open landscapes, river and coastal environments, and a strong sense of community, the region combines affordability, liveability and the opportunity for a Chief Executive Officer to make a meaningful impact.
About the role...
The Chief Executive Officer is the principal executive officer of Council, accountable to the Mayor and Elected Members for the overall leadership, performance and sustainability of the Council. The role is responsible for translating Council's vision, strategies and decisions into effective organisational delivery, ensuring Council's people, finances, assets, operations and major projects are managed responsibly, sustainably and in the best interests of the community.
Working with the Mayor, Elected Members and the Senior Management Team, the CEO provides strategic leadership and advice to support effective governance, informed decision making and organisational performance.
What you will do...
* Provide clear, timely and professional advice to the Mayor and Elected Members, supporting transparent communication, collaboration and balanced decision making.
* Lead the development, delivery and review of Council's Corporate, Strategic and Annual Business Plans, translating vision into practical and achievable outcomes.
* Drive organisational growth through service innovation, continuous improvement and a culture of accountability, integrity and excellence.
* Ensure strong governance, risk management and compliance with statutory and legislative requirements.
* Champion sustainable community and economic development and growth, identifying opportunities that align with Council's strategic priorities and long term community needs.
* Oversee Council's financial sustainability through sound budgeting, long term financial planning, asset management frameworks and responsible management of cash flow and investments.
* Lead advocacy efforts and attract grant and external funding to advance Council priorities and strengthen the community.
* Ensure local services are efficient, customer-focused and responsive to community needs, driving continuous improvement across all operational areas.
* Lead the organisation's operations and major projects, ensuring delivery within approved timeframes, scope and budget.
* Foster a positive, accountable and high performing organisational culture that supports capability, safety, wellbeing and professional development.
* Build and maintain constructive relationships with Elected Members, staff, community, government agencies and key stakeholders.
* Represent Council professionally in the community, with media, regional partners and external organisations.
* Community engagement and accessibility including attendance at community events and a commitment to being accessible and visible to the community.
What they are looking for...
* Proven senior executive leadership experience in a complex, multi-functional organisation.
* Demonstrated capability in strategic planning, organisational leadership and driving performance, growth and continuous improvement.
* Strong financial acumen, including sound budgeting, long term financial planning, asset management and support for major project delivery.
* Understanding of community and economic development, with the ability to identify and seize opportunities that support long term growth and sustainability.
* Proven ability to advocate effectively for Council priorities, securing external funding and grant opportunities.
* A sound understanding of governance, public sector accountability and legislative frameworks.
* The ability to build trusted, productive relationships with the Mayor, Elected Members and executive team.
* Well-developed communication, negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Approachable, responsive and an active listener with high emotional intelligence and integrity.
* Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field, or equivalent senior executive experience.
What the Coorong District Council offer...
At the Coorong District Council, they support your growth, wellbeing, and work-life balance through:
* Ongoing professional development and the opportunity to lead meaningful organisational growth.
* A collaborative and inclusive executive team environment with a genuine focus on community outcomes.
* Access to Council supported health, wellbeing and employee assistance programs
* An outstanding regional lifestyle, connected and surrounded by natural beauty, just one hour from Adelaide
If you are a values driven, strategically leader with a passion for regional communities, financial sustainability and delivering quality local services, we encourage you to apply.
To obtain a copy of the Candidate Information Pack and to apply, please visit mcarthur.com.au and quote reference number J8932. Applications close 9am Monday 1st June 2026.
Confidential enquiries can be directed to Rebecca Hunt on (08) 8100 7000.
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