Planning functions are often judged by process. In practice, they are defined by the quality, consistency and timeliness of decisions, particularly when the work ranges from routine applications through to complex, city‐shaping developments.
This role leads that outcome.
About Brisbane City Council
Brisbane City Council is Australia's largest local government by population, managing assets exceeding $44 billion and an annual budget of over $4.1 billion. The city is entering a pivotal period shaped by accelerating growth, rising public service expectations, and the approaching **** Olympic and Paralympic Games. These forces are sharpening the focus on how Brisbane plans, performs, and improves for decades to come. In response, Brisbane City Council is evolving how it operates to remain a high-performing organisation that delivers lasting value.
The role
Reporting to the General Manager, Development Services, the Manager, Planning Services is responsible for the leadership and performance of Council's development assessment (town planning) and development advisory functions.
You will lead a substantial team of town planners (approximately 100 staff across six direct reports) that works collaboratively across Council to deliver development decisions and advice across a wide range of projects, from standard applications to complex proposals that shape how the city evolves.
The role carries both scale and delegated authority. It requires sound judgement, consistency of decision-making, and the ability to balance policy intent, technical considerations and stakeholder expectations.
Alongside operational leadership, you will contribute to the ongoing shift toward a more integrated, service-led operating model,



strengthening how planning and development services are delivered, coordinated and continuously improved.
Key responsibilities
Lead development assessment and advisory services to ensure timely, consistent decisions.
Provide expert advice on complex development and infrastructure matters.
Oversee operational performance, resourcing and budget alignment.
Apply and influence planning policy, legislation and standards.
Build and manage relationships with industry, government and community stakeholders.
Ensure solid governance, compliance and risk management in decision-making.
Drive improvement and digital enablement across planning processes.
Contribute to executive leadership and broader organisational priorities.
The Environment
This is a highly visible service at the interface of Council, industry and the community.
Decisions are often complex, time-sensitive and subject to competing interests. The role requires an ability to navigate those dynamics with professionalism, consistency and credibility.
It also sits within a broader organisational shift – moving away from siloed structures toward a more integrated, customer-led model of service delivery.
About You
You are an experienced leader from a planning, development or related environment,



with the ability to operate confidently in a high‐volume, high‐accountability setting.
As a customer-centric and outcomes focused executive, you will bring:
Deep experience in development assessment, planning or development delivery.
Strong judgement across complex applications and competing stakeholder interests.
A track record of leading teams and driving consistent service delivery.
The ability to apply policy and legislation in a practical, outcome-focused way.
Experience improving systems, processes and service models.
Strong stakeholder capability, including engagement with senior internal stakeholders, industry and community.
The resilience and emotional intelligence to lead through pressure, complexity and resistance.
Equally important is how you lead calm, considered and focused on outcomes rather than activity.
Why this role
This is one of the more consequential planning leadership roles in local government.
You will influence how development decisions are made across a growing city, at scale and in full view of stakeholders who care deeply about the outcomes.
The work sits at the intersection of policy, delivery and community impact. For the right person, it offers breadth, significance and the opportunity to help shape how planning services operate into the future.
Applications close: Midnight, Friday 14th August ****
Confidential enquiries to: Kerry Larkin, Senior Associate, Luminary, on ************
Luminary is committed to storing and utilising your information in accordance with the Privacy Act ****. For further information regarding this please visit:
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📌 Manager Planning Services (Brisbane)
🏢 Brisbane City Council
📍 Brisbane