Manager, Growth Planning and Development Services

Help shape the future of one of Victoria's fastest-growing municipalities.

Mitchell Shire is where the city meets the country. Located just 40 minutes north of Melbourne, we're home to thriving townships, beautiful natural landscapes and some of Australia's fastest-growing communities.

With a current population of more than 64,000 residents and forecast growth to over 220,000 by 2046, there has never been a more exciting time to join Mitchell Shire Council. As we continue to grow, so do the opportunities to make a genuine difference to our community and help shape the future of one of Victoria's most dynamic municipalities.

At Mitchell Shire Council, you'll be part of a progressive, inclusive and supportive organisation that values collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement. Together, we work as One Mitchell, guided by our values of Trusted, Engaged and Innovative.

About the Opportunity

We're looking for an experienced and forward-thinking leader to help shape how Mitchell Shire grows, ensuring that new development creates great places to live, connected communities and lasting benefits for future generations.

As our Manager, Growth Planning and Development Services, you'll provide strategic and operational leadership across Growth Area Planning, Planning and Building Services. You'll play a key role in guiding development across one of Victoria's fastest-growing regions, balancing the opportunities of rapid growth with the need for well-planned, sustainable and liveable communities.

This is a diverse and influential leadership role where you'll work closely with government agencies, developers, community stakeholders and teams across Council to turn growth plans into positive outcomes on the ground.

You'll be responsible for:

• Leading and developing high-performing teams across growth area planning, statutory planning and building services.
• Driving a proactive and coordinated approach to planning and development that supports housing, infrastructure, transport, open space and community needs.
• Overseeing complex planning and development matters, working collaboratively to identify practical solutions and achieve quality outcomes.
• Building strong relationships with government, industry and community stakeholders to influence growth and development priorities.
• Championing efficient, responsive and customer-focused planning and building services while maintaining strong governance and regulatory compliance.
• Providing strategic advice to Council and Executive Leadership and contributing to broader organisational priorities as a member of Council's Senior Management Team.

More than managing planning processes, this role is about leading positive change, influencing the future of our communities and ensuring Mitchell's growth is something we can all be proud of.

This is a permanent, full-time opportunity, based in Wallan, with flexible working arrangements in line with Council policy.

The total remuneration package on offer starts at $195k, inclusive of superannuation, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

 Why Mitchell?

At Mitchell Shire Council, we are committed to creating a workplace where people can thrive and do their best work. In return for your contribution, you'll enjoy:

• Flexible work arrangements where operationally possible
• Learning and development opportunities
• Employee wellbeing initiatives and Employee Assistance Program support
• A values-driven and supportive workplace culture
• The opportunity to contribute to one of Victoria's fastest-growing municipalities
• Meaningful work that makes a difference to our community

About You

We're looking for a confident and collaborative leader who understands the challenges and opportunities of growth and is passionate about creating great communities.

You'll bring a strong strategic mindset, sound professional judgement and the ability to balance regulatory responsibilities with a practical, solutions-focused approach to development.

To succeed in this role, you'll have:

• A tertiary qualification in urban and regional planning, town planning or a related discipline, with eligibility for full membership of the Planning Institute of Australia.
• Significant leadership experience in planning and development, ideally within local government, state government or the development sector.
• Strong knowledge of Victoria's planning framework and demonstrated experience in growth area planning, statutory planning and complex development matters.
• An understanding of building services and regulatory responsibilities, with the ability to provide effective leadership and oversight.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop professional teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Well-developed communication, negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills, with the confidence to navigate complex issues and influence positive outcomes.

Most importantly, you'll be someone who sees the bigger picture, brings people together and is motivated by the opportunity to make a genuine and lasting impact.

Want to Know More?

For further information about this opportunity, please contact Les Stokes Director Environment, Growth and Infrastructure, on 0474 371 050.

All applications must address the Key Selection Criteria contained within the Position Description. For information on how to apply, please visit our Careers page.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion and Safety

Mitchell Shire Council is committed to building a diverse, inclusive and accessible workplace that values different perspectives and upholds the highest standards of integrity, respect and responsibility. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, members of the LGBTQIA+ community and people with disabilities.

As a Child Safe Organisation, we are committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of children and young people. Successful applicants will be required to obtain and maintain a valid Working with Children Check where required for the role.

Our commitment is guided by the principles of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (Vic), the Gender Equality Act 2020, the Climate Change Act 2017 and the Victorian Child Safe Standards.

We are committed to providing an accessible recruitment process. If you require any reasonable adjustments or additional support during the application or interview process, we encourage you to let us know. We will work with you to ensure you have the opportunity to participate fully and demonstrate your capabilities.

Applications close at 5.00pm on Friday 27 November 2026.