General Manager Workforce and Governance
* Executive contract (4 years)
* Attractive salary package of circa $265,000 per annum (including superannuation and vehicle allowance)
* Relocation Support – Comprehensive assistance to help you and your family settle into Rockhampton
Lead the Future of Workforce and Governance in Central Queensland
Are you a strategic leader passionate about driving organisational capability and embedding strong governance frameworks? Rockhampton Regional Council is seeking a dynamic and experiencedGeneral Manager Workforce and Governance to join our executive leadership team.
The role will be responsible for developing and implementing key change management strategies and services to improve staff and business performance to attract, retain, develop and manage a highly engaged and committed workforce, and to develop a positive organisational culture aligned to our vision and values that fosters One Team, Accountability, Customer Focused, People Development and Continuous Improvement.
How You'll Make an Impact
As General Manager Workforce and Governance, you will:
* Provide high-level strategic and critical support to the Chief Executive Officer and Council.
* Lead a diverse portfolio including Workplace Health and Safety, People and Capability, Internal Audit, Legal & Governance, and Media & Communications.
* Oversee corporate governance frameworks and ensure compliance with legislative requirements.
* Drive organisational change, workforce development, and continuous improvement initiatives.
* Inspire and lead a high-performing team to deliver proactive, people-focused solutions.
* Act as a key link between Councillors and the organisation, influencing policy and decision-making.
This executive leadership position plays a pivotal role in delivering Council's Corporate and Operational Plans and embedding a culture of accountability, innovation, and customer focus.
To Thrive in This Role, You'll Have
* Proven executive leadership experience in Local Government or similar complex environments.
* Strong strategic, governance, and risk management capabilities.
* Exceptional stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
* Demonstrated ability to lead organisational change and foster a positive, high-performance culture.
* Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline.
Rockhampton is the Place to Be
As the heart of Central Queensland, Rockhampton offers unmatched access to opportunity, lifestyle, and regional connectivity:
* Strategic Infrastructure: Extensive transport networks, airport with direct flights, and proximity to port facilities.
* Economic Momentum: Over $12 billion in projects underway or planned across resources, agribusiness, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.
* Lifestyle Advantage: Natural attractions, excellent education and health facilities, and affordable living.
* Tourism & Events Hub: Home to major events like Beef Australia and Rockynats, plus heritage architecture and outdoor adventures.
Want to know more? Visit our Live Rockhampton site as a guide to our region.
Ready for What's Next?
To apply for this opportunity, please submit two documents:
1. A 4–5 page Cover Letter addressing the Application Criteria below; and
2. Your current resume.
Application Criteria
Strategic Leadership and Executive Support
Demonstrate your ability to provide high-level strategic and critical support to the Chief Executive Officer and Council, including influencing policy development, decision-making, and organisational direction. Provide examples of how you have contributed to whole-of-organisation governance and performance.
Governance and Compliance Expertise
Outline your experience in managing corporate governance frameworks, internal audit functions, and legal compliance within a Local Government or similarly complex regulatory environment. Highlight your ability to ensure legislative adherence and embed governance best practices across an organisation.
Change Leadership and Workforce Development
Demonstrate your ability to lead organisational change, foster a culture of accountability, innovation and high-performance while aligning teams with organisational values. Outline your approach to leading a safety-first culture and building workforce capability through strategies that support safety, wellbeing, training, and professional development. Include examples of initiatives that have driven continuous improvement, organisational resilience, and future capability.
Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Leadership
Demonstrate your ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships, including Councillors, staff, and external partners. Highlight your experience in overseeing media and communications functions and managing organisational reputation in a high-profile public environment.
Knowledge of Local Government and Legislative Frameworks
Demonstrate your understanding of local government operations, relevant legislation, and regulatory environments. Explain how this knowledge has informed your decision-making and strategic direction.
Please use Council's cover letter template and ensure you clearly label each Application Criteria in your cover letter.
Click the 'Apply' button to complete your online application.
Applications Close: Monday 26 January 2026 at Midnight (AEST)