Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional for a permanent, full-time opportunity as Manager Strategic Planning . This pivotal role is responsible for leading the development of policies, strategies, and planning documentation across all major planning functions within Council, ensuring a coordinated and forward-thinking approach to long-term strategic planning.

As Manager Strategic Planning , you will lead a dynamic business unit that works collaboratively across Council to deliver strategic insight, planning expertise, project management, and resource allocation. Your leadership will enable a smooth and integrated approach to organisational strategic planning.

Key responsibilities

- Driving the effective and effective management of Council’s Strategic Planning functions
- Overseeing the preparation and implementation of key planning instruments including Local Environmental Plans, Development Contributions Plans (Sections 7.11 and 7.12), Development Control Plans, Planning Proposals, Voluntary Planning Agreements, Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme, Master Plans, and the Local Strategic Planning Statement
- Managing the Council’s Development Contributions framework
- Leading heritage initiatives including the Heritage Building Grants Program, Conservation Management Plans, Heritage Advisory Service, and exemption processes for Heritage Items
- Ensuring accurate data and processes for Section 10.7 (2) & (5) Planning Certificates in collaboration with other business units
- Providing strategic planning advice and recommendations to Council and the Executive Management Team




- Ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and Council policies, while effectively managing associated risks

What We Offer

- Permanent, Full-Time Role
- Salary from $174,485.75 – $201,971.49 per annum plus 12% superannuation
- Vehicle allowance of $10,780 per annum
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
- Access to Council leave entitlements, including 4 weeks annual leave, 5 days Manager leave, long service leave after 5 years and additional health and wellbeing leave
- Fitness passport program offering discounted membership for you and your family for selected facilities

What We're Looking For

- Relevant tertiary qualifications in Town Planning, Architecture or related discipline and significant relevant experience at a management level
- Demonstrated significant experience at a senior management level within strategic planning
- Demonstrated knowledge of planning legislation and practice
- Demonstrated experience in the development and implementation of strategic land use planning policies and tools to deliver outcomes
- Demonstrated experience in developing, implementing, and managing processes and procedures to ensure the professional and efficient delivery of strategic planning services
- Demonstrated experience in staff management, budget management, performance management,



transformation and change, and business improvement
- Demonstrated negotiation/conflict resolution, problem solving and decision-making skills relating to sensitive and complex matters in a political setting
- Excellent written and oral communications skills, including ability to communicate with a range of stakeholders
- Current NSW Class C Drivers Licence
- Knowledge and understanding of local government
- Understanding and commitment to equal employment opportunities, occupational health and safety and ethical practice principles

Application Details

Applicants must apply via our website. Closing Date: Friday 24 October 2025 at 11:59pm AEST. Offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results of a thorough background check. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend interviews during the week of 24 November 2025. You may be asked to provide responses to targeted questions as part of the application process.

Equal Employment Opportunity statement Georges River Council is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, workers of all ages, people with disabilities, those who identify as LGBTQIA+, and individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. We are committed to child safety and to upholding our child-safe organisation practices.

Note : You must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident or have unlimited working rights (with no Visa restrictions) to apply for this position.

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📌 Manager Strategic Planning (City of Sydney)
🏢 Georges River Council
📍 City of Sydney