Manager Economic Development Wellington Shire Council - Sale Victoria This is an exciting opportunity to lead strategic initiatives that attract investment, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth - as the Manager Economic Development at Wellington Shire Council . Reporting to the General Manager Development, you'll be part of the Senior Leadership Team and play a key role in positioning Wellington as a destination of choice for business, industry, and lifestyle. You'll lead programs that support business growth, encourage innovation, and strengthen the region's economic resilience and prosperity. Why Join Wellington? Hybrid working - up to 12 days per month WFH. Competitive salary vehicle (private use). Additional leave purchase and professional development opportunities. Exciting portfolio of upcoming major projects. Enjoy the lifestyle benefits of living in unique and beautiful region - in the ' Middle of Everywhere ' About Wellington Shire As Victoria's third-largest municipality, Wellington Shire stretches from the High Country to the iconic Gippsland Lakes and the Ninety Mile Beach. With over 500 employees and a budget exceeding $150 million, the Council delivers essential services to a thriving and diverse community. Wellington is home to some of Australia's most significant renewable energy projects, RAAF Base East Sale, and a strong, established agricultural base - including major dairy, beef, and horticultural producers. This combination of traditional and emerging industries positions Wellington as a key contributor to Victoria's clean energy transition and regional economic growth. Key responsibilities include: Lead economic strategy and partnerships that grow Wellington's economy, attract investment, and support local business and industry. Drive key initiatives including the Middle of Everywhere brand and major projects that promote the region's competitive advantages. Manage Council's commercial portfolio , including overseeing the West Sale Airport and Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange, ensuring strong financial and operational performance. Support industry diversification by enabling growth in key sectors such as Defence, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Tourism. Champion the visitor economy through tourism and major event initiatives that enhance liveability and regional vibrancy. Lead advocacy and investment attraction efforts with government and private partners to deliver infrastructure and industry growth. Provide strategic leadership to ensure alignment with Council's vision for a sustainable, inclusive, and innovative economy. About You You are a strategic leader who thrives on collaboration, influence, and results. With proven experience in economic development, investment attraction, or related sectors, you are: An empowering, positive and engaged leader, with excellent stakeholder engagement skills. Have a track record in delivering economic development or major investment projects. Strategic, commercially minded, and politically astute. Confident in dealing with major industry players and government stakeholders. Able to manage complexity across multiple sectors and community interests Have a strong understanding of local government or regional economic environments. Are tertiary qualified, in business, economics, planning, or a related discipline. Candidates with the drive and commitment to achieve exceptional outcomes for both Council and the community will be rewarded with this highly sought-after role. Wellington Shire Council has a strong commitment to create a workplace culture that is collaborative, provides work-life flexibility and encourages opportunities for growth and development. We take pride in providing a supportive workplace with great career opportunities for our employees. For a candidate pack or to apply, please visit mcarthur.com.au referencing job number J8473 in the search bar. For a confidential conversation, please contact Danielle Jupp or Fiona Bain on (03) 9828 6565 . Applications close on Wednesday 12 th November 2025 (TBC)
