With Mount Barker experiencing one of the fastest growth trajectories in South Australia, we're seeking an inspiring and strategic Leader to join our Executive Team as General Manager – Planning & Community.
In this position you will drive major planning, development and community initiatives to create 'the most liveable region in South Australia'. Be a part of one of Australia's fastest growing Councils and regions, delivering exciting and significant Community Projects, Community Property and high quality City Development.
Your portfolio will include:
· City Development – including Building Compliance, Planning and Development Engineering
· Health & Public Safety – Environmental Health, Public Safety, Immunisation, and Community Programs
· Community – Community Development and Library Services
· Property – Strategic property management and development
· Projects Sponsorship – Oversight of specific high-impact projects as assigned
As an Executive Team Member you will:
· lead, coach, inspire and mentor staff;
· represent the Council in significant development matters; and
· shape the future of the Council direction.
To be successful in this role you will:
· have energy and passion for creating great communities;
· have strong knowledge and skills in governance and property management; and
· apply strategic and future thinking and resolve complex problems.
This executive role demands a visionary who can integrate long-term planning, responsive community development, service excellence, and effective governance.
Your Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Culture
* Inspire and lead multidisciplinary teams with energy, purpose, and clarity
* Cultivate a culture of trust, innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement
* Model open, transparent communication and high-performance leadership
Strategic Management
* Drive sustainable, future-focused strategies aligned with Council's strategic goals
* Provide sound policy and planning advice to the CEO, Mayor, and Council Members
* Lead the development of business and strategic plans across your directorate
* Deliver high-quality reports and recommendations to support informed decision-making
Service Excellence
* Champion outstanding customer service and community engagement
* Implement continuous improvement initiatives that raise service delivery standards
* Promote a learning and development culture across all departments
Financial Oversight
* Ensure responsible and forward-thinking financial management
* Lead budget planning, project delivery, and resource allocation for all portfolio areas
* Monitor performance against industry standards and KPIs
Partnerships & Representation
* Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders
* Represent Council in negotiations and partnerships with government agencies, developers, and community groups
* Promote the reputation, values, and leadership role of Council across the region
About You – Skills, Experience & Qualifications
To thrive in this role, you will bring a proven track record of executive leadership, operational delivery, and strategic thinking within a complex and service-focused organisation. Specifically, you will demonstrate:
Service Delivery & Community Focus
* Demonstrated experience in a senior service delivery role with a strong commitment to customer service excellence
* Proven ability to meet growing community expectations through responsive and effective service models
Project & Planning Expertise
* Experience in the end-to-end management of major projects, including concept planning and design
* Ability to balance deadlines, customer service standards, and commercial outcomes
* Experience working with consultants to produce efficient and effective project outcomes
* Strong capability in contract management and associated communication strategies
* Community Engagement & Consultation Extensive experience in designing and delivering public consultation and community engagement processes
* A strong understanding of community development principles and stakeholder collaboration
Leadership & Team Development
* Demonstrated experience in leading high-performing and multidisciplinary teams
* Ability to foster a positive, accountable, and high-achieving team culture
* Skilled in leading change and implementing continuous improvement initiatives
Financial & Legislative Acumen
* Effective budget management experience across operational and capital programs
* Experience with legislative compliance functions, preferably in a local government context
Qualifications
* Tertiary qualifications relevant to the position (e.g. Urban Planning, Community Development, Public Administration, or similar), with eligibility for professional membership where applicable
* Additional qualifications in leadership, management, and/or project management are highly desirable
For further information please refer to the Position Description or contact Emily Fraser, People & Culture Business Partner on
Applications close 5pm 27 October 2025