Manager Community & Cultural Services
Central Highlands Regional Council | Emerald, QLD | $210K–$252K TRP
Public Sector People is partnering with Central Highlands Regional Council to appoint a Manager Community & Cultural Services, an influential leadership role based in Emerald.
An opportunity to lead, influence and make a difference.
Take ownership of a broad portfolio of services that matter to communities across the Central Highlands, with the freedom to develop people, strengthen performance and shape future priorities.
Council is seeking a confident, practical leader who can bring teams together, solve complex problems and turn strategic direction into tangible results.
With key initiatives underway, you will build on established foundations, strengthen governance and capability, and make a lasting contribution to the organisation and its communities.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Director Communities, you will lead libraries, arts and culture, community grants, regional events, youth programs, First Nations initiatives, community relationships and human and social recovery.
This varied portfolio calls for a leader who can connect different functions, set clear priorities and deliver outcomes. You do not need to be a technical specialist in every service area; strong leadership and good governance are essential.
Your key responsibilities will include:
Providing strategic and operational leadership across the Community and Cultural Services portfolio
Coaching and developing multidisciplinary teams and strengthening accountability and performance
Improving the quality and effectiveness of community programs and public-facing services
Progressing strategies and initiatives across libraries, arts, culture and heritage
Overseeing community grants and aligning programs with Council and community priorities
Managing budgets, resources,



service performance and financial accountability
Building partnerships with community organisations, Traditional Owners and government agencies
Providing considered advice to the Executive Leadership Team and elected representatives
Strengthening governance, systems, planning and operational processes
Identifying practical opportunities for innovation and measurable community outcomes
About You
Above all, you will be a capable people leader who gets results.
You will thrive in a complex service environment, communicate clearly, navigate competing priorities and bring people with you through change while setting high expectations.
Ideally, you will bring:
Proven leadership experience in government, community services or a complex service organisation
Experience managing multidisciplinary teams and building capability in others
Good governance, financial management and operational planning skills
Ability to translate strategy into practical programs and measurable outcomes
Strong communication, negotiation and stakeholder engagement capability
Confidence working with executives, elected representatives and diverse communities
Sound judgement and an ability to manage competing expectations and priorities
Experience delivering positive community outcomes and service improvements
A collaborative, practical approach to change and continuous improvement
Relevant tertiary qualifications and/or substantial comparable leadership experience




Council welcomes candidates from local and state government, major not-for-profit organisations and other community-focused service providers. A traditional community services background is not essential if you can demonstrate effective leadership and accountable service delivery.
This may also suit an experienced Coordinator or senior leader from a larger organisation who is ready to step into broader management responsibility.
Why Central Highlands Regional Council?
This is your opportunity to influence more than day-to-day operations: shape a diverse portfolio and the way services evolve across the region.
Council is progressing initiatives across libraries, arts, youth, heritage, events and community grants. You will build on this work, strengthen your team and improve the experience of the communities Council serves.
You will have room to introduce fresh ideas while working within a supportive and accountable local government environment.
For a leader motivated by variety, problem-solving and community impact, this is an opportunity to make the role your own.
The opportunity offers:
$210,000–$252,000 Total Remuneration Package
A visible senior leadership role across a broad and diverse portfolio
Relocation assistance for candidates moving to the region
Potential access to Council accommodation
Based in Emerald, you can enjoy the benefits of regional living, a welcoming community and access to the Central Highlands' remarkable natural attractions.
If you are ready to develop people, improve services and contribute to the future of the Central Highlands, we would welcome a confidential discussion.
Be part of something that matters, with like-minded people who truly care. One Place. Many Paths. Choose Yours Here.
Applications close Tuesday 3rd November at 5pm
#J-*****-Ljbffr

📌 Manager Communities & Cultural Services (Gladstone Central)
🏢 Public Sector People
📍 Gladstone Central