Current vacancies

Manager, Economic Development

Attract investment. Grow local jobs. Champion a stronger visitor economy.

Mitchell Shire is entering a defining chapter.

40km north of Melbourne, our Shire spans Beveridge, Wallan, Kilmore, Broadford and Seymour. We’re a key growth corridor — balancing rapid residential expansion with the country character and community values that make Mitchell, Mitchell. With strong growth ahead, every one of our 40+ townships has a role to play.

We’re setting the organisation up for what’s next.

A refreshed structure, clearer accountability and faster decisions. Elevating economic development is central to that shift — strengthening how we attract investment, create jobs and grow tourism across the Shire.

About the role

The Manager, Economic Development leads the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of Council’s economic development function — supporting job creation, business growth, and investment attraction across Mitchell.

Reporting to the Director, Partnerships, Economy and Communities, you’ll also drive the visitor economy, positioning Mitchell as a competitive destination and a great place to do business.

You are Council’s principal adviser on economic development and a visible partner to business, investors, regional bodies, and other tiers of government.

Your focus is simple: turn opportunity into outcomes — more investment, more local jobs, a stronger visitor economy.

You’ll deliver:

• Strategy and plans — lead delivery of the Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan, aligned to community priorities and growth areas.
• Investment attraction — identify, attract, and facilitate sustainable investment across our urban and rural communities, building a healthy pipeline.
• Business and industry growth — support local business, innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development through practical programs and partnerships.
• Visitor economy — grow visitation and spend through destination development, place activation, and promotion of events and experiences.
• Plan-led growth — integrate economic priorities with structure planning and infrastructure delivery so jobs and services keep pace with population growth.
• Advocacy and funding — make the case for enabling infrastructure and secure funding with compelling data and partnerships.
• Governance and advice — provide timely, plain-English advice to the Director, Executive Leadership Team and Council; manage budgets, risks and compliance.

Your portfolio covers

• Investment Attraction and Major Opportunities.
• Business Support and Industry Development.
• Visitor Economy and Place Activation.
• Strategy, Research and Data.
• Advocacy, Partnerships and Funding.

About you

Calm, credible, and practical. You’re comfortable at the table with investors and Ministers, and just as comfortable on the ground with local businesses.

You bring:

• Experience leading economic development strategies and programs in local government or a regional setting.
• Strong understanding of business needs, investment attraction, workforce issues, and tourism development.
• A track record of building productive partnerships across government, business, and community.
• Contemporary team leadership — high performance, accountability, and innovation.
• Financial and strategic acumen, including budget management, grants, and economic analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, from board papers to business roundtables.

Why Mitchell? Why now?

Work where momentum is real and impact is visible — in the heart of Victoria. You’ll help shape planned communities and town centres while preserving what people value about living here. 

We offer:

• Meaningful work for a growing community.
• Flexible work options and supportive leaders in a values-led culture.
• Professional development and the chance to shape policy, systems and practice.
• A competitive total remuneration package (from $185k dependant on experience, inclusive of superannuation), plus access to a private use vehicle.

This is a full time permanent position.

Want More Info?  

• Contact Jo Wilson Director Partnerships, Economy and Communities for a confidential conversation on 03 5735 1563.
• To apply, submit your cover letter and resume addressing the Key Selection Criteria. For information on how to apply, please visit our Careers page.

Mitchell Shire Council is a Child Safe Organisation. The successful applicant will be required to obtain a Working with Children Check, prior to commencement. Mitchell Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer and committed to building a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace.

Applications close at 5pm Friday 7 November 2025.