Direct Infrastructure, Civil Engineering, and Land Use Planning for Kempsey Shire. Lead change and deliver essential community services.
- Contribute significantly to positive community outcomes for the region.
- Oversee a large, diverse workforce, manage divisional budget, and ensure cost-effective asset lifecycle management.
- Competitive remuneration for the region and similar sized councils.
An executive opportunity has become available at Kempsey Shire Council as they seek to fill a vacancy for the Director of Operations and Planning. This position is a critical member of our Executive Leadership Team, responsible for contributing to the organisation's strategic direction and shaping a workplace culture of innovation. You will be instrumental in ensuring the delivery of high-quality services and facilities to the Kempsey Shire community, playing a key role in our region's future.
Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, this dynamic role manages a large and diverse workforce engaged in construction, civil engineering, and strategic planning. You will hold ultimate responsibility for the management and sustainability of the Shire’s extensive infrastructure, including transport, recreational, water, and sewer assets. Furthermore, this position provides crucial oversight of all land use planning, development assessment, and compliance functions, while also leading disaster event preparedness, driving change management, and ensuring sound financial management across the division.
We are seeking a senior leader with extensive experience managing large, diverse workforces, ideally within a construction or civil engineering background with previous local government experience. Your background will demonstrate a strong track record in managing major infrastructure portfolios, coupled with commercial awareness and high-level financial acumen. Post-graduate qualifications in Engineering, Planning, or Project Management are highly desirable. Above all, you must be a collaborative leader who can manage complex stakeholder relationships, lead continuous business improvement, and champion our organisational values.
Applications for this role should be made online at www.lgnsw.org.au/lgms
Applications including a full CV, Covering Letter and response to the position’s Selection Criteria must be completed online through the above website.
All applicants must address the selection criteria to be considered for this role.
To learn more about the Council visit www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/Home
If you would like more information, please contact Sebastian Kaiser, Senior Consultant Local Government Management Solutions on 0425 369 986 for a confidential discussion.
Applications close 5pm, Monday 24 November 2025.
