Director Planning and Community Services
Parkes Shire Council

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for community development and operational excellence? Parkes Shire Council is looking for a dynamic and experienced Director Planning and Community Services to lead a dedicated team in delivering vital services that enhance the quality of life across our region.
About the Opportunity
Based in Parkes, NSW, as the Director Planning and Community Services, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction, performance, and delivery of services across a wide and meaningful portfolio.
- Lead and manage the Planning and Community Services Directorate with vision and integrity.
- Oversee efficient delivery of services, projects, and programs including:
- Planning and Building Certification
- Regulation and Compliance
- Cemetery Management
- Ranger Services
- Cultural, Education and Library Services
- Central West Childcare Services
- Ensure alignment with legislation, Council policies and best practices.
- Work closely with the Executive Leadership Team to drive organisational performance.
- Champion the implementation of Council’s Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) framework.
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- University qualification in Environmental Health, Building Surveying, Planning or related discipline
- Extensive experience working in a relevant field at a senior management or executive level in a complex organisation.
- Advanced leadership skills
- Advanced strategic planning skills
- Advanced communication and interpersonal skills
- High level IT literacy, computer and software skills
- General Construction Induction Card (White Card).
- Current driver's licence.
Additionally, the following skills and background will be highly valued:
- Postgraduate qualification/s in Leadership, Project Management or related discipline.
- Successful completion of Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) Company Directors Course.
- Professional accreditation such as Governance Institute of Australia, Planning Institute of Australia, Australian Institute of Building Surveyors or similar.
This role is perfect for a forward-thinking, collaborative leader who thrives on delivering results for both community and Council. We value community, innovation, integrity, respect, teamwork and safety and we're seeking someone who embodies these principles.
Further information on the role is contained in the Director Planning and Community Services Position Description.
Benefits
This is a full-time, permanent position and that comes with a competitive remuneration package along with great staff benefits and a supportive work environment.
Benefits of working at Council include:
- Five (5) weeks of Annual Leave per year
- Three (3) weeks of Sick/Carers Leave per year
- Access to Long Service Leave (6.5 weeks) after five years
- Access to salary packaging options through Salary Packaging Australia (SPA)
- Wellness Programs and Health and Wellbeing initiatives including two (2) Health and Wellness days per year.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Paid parental leave
- Relocation assistance includes 40% reimbursement of removalist costs upon commencement and a further 40% reimbursement after 18 months of service.
Why Parkes Shire Council?
- Make a real impact in a vibrant community.
- Work alongside dedicated professionals.
- Shape the future of our region.
The Parkes Shire sits at the heart of Central West NSW, strategically located on the Newell Highway, Australia's major inland touring route. Parkes is five hours drive from Sydney and three hours drive from Canberra and has connectivity to three regional airports within 90 minutes, at Parkes, Dubbo and Orange.
The Parkes Shire covers an area of 5,919 square kilometres and takes in some of the richest and most productive farming and grazing land in NSW.
Just over 14,000 people call Parkes Shire home, and our economy is underpinned by agriculture and mining, and strengthened by the emerging transport and logistics industries.
Many state-significant developments are underway in the Parkes region, including the Parkes Special Activation Precinct (SAP), which is set to be the catalyst for significant regional growth and industry diversification. This development capitalises on the strategic location of Parkes at the crossroads of the national rail network, where the north-south Inland Rail line meets the Sydney to Perth transcontinental line.
For more information about Parkes Shire Council and the Parkes Shire, please visit our website: https://www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/Home
Parkes Shire Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer that fosters diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences, as we believe in building an inclusive work environment that reflects the community we serve.
Ready to Apply?
Submit your application using the 'Apply' button below. You will be asked to answer basic screening questions and upload your resume and cover letter that detail your suitability for the role.
If you would like more information or a copy of the position description, please contact our People, Safety and Culture team at [email protected]
Successful applicants may be required to undertake additional pre-employment checks including but not limited to a criminal history check, medical, psychometric testing and/or working with children check.
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