About the City of Unley … The City of Unley is a vibrant and dynamic local Council that provides a range of valued and diverse services to the surrounding community. Based on the city fringe, less than 4 kilometres from the Adelaide CBD, the Council engages with their community across local business initiatives, community events, arts, environmental sustainability, community services and volunteering programs. They are passionate leaders in many fields and believe that what they do makes a positive difference to their community. They are committed to creating a dynamic City that embraces new ideas, prioritises sustainability, and enhances quality of life. With the newly endorsed Community Plan responding to climate change, they will support a growing population and enhance the wellbeing and prosperity of their community. About the role… The City of Unley is seeking an experienced and strategic professional to lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of Council's strategic and corporate planning frameworks. Reporting to the Executive Manager Governance, Risk and Strategy, this role will ensure alignment between Council's long-term vision, legislative requirements, and operational delivery. You will oversee the design and implementation of performance measurement systems, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and enable evidence-based decision making through the provision of accurate and timely strategic advice and insights. This position plays a key role in building a culture of performance and accountability across the organisation and supporting Council to deliver on its community aspirations. What you will do… . Lead the coordination and review of Council's Strategic Management Framework, including the Community Plan, 4-Year Delivery Plan, Organisational Plan, Lead Strategies, and the development of Council's Annual Business Plan. Develop and oversee the implementation of performance measurement and reporting systems that support strategic alignment and organisational effectiveness. Collaborate across the organisation to support the development of service plans, KPIs, and improvement initiatives aligned with Council's strategic priorities. Identify, lead and support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance Council's effectiveness, efficiency, and customer experience. Provide expert advice and insights to the Executive Leadership Team, Elected Members and staff on strategy, performance and integrated planning. Monitor external trends, policy developments and legislative changes that may impact Council's strategic priorities and provide timely analysis and recommendations. Facilitate and lead cross-functional projects and working groups related to strategic initiatives, corporate planning, and performance improvement . Prepare high-quality reports, briefings, and presentations for Executive, Council, committees, and external stakeholders. What they are looking for… Tertiary qualifications and/or extensive experience in strategic planning, business management, public administration or governance, or a related field. Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, corporate performance, and/or policy development within a government or complex organisational context. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills , with experience using data and performance metrics to inform decision-making. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills , with the ability to prepare clear, well-structured reports, briefs, and presentations tailored to diverse audiences. Proven ability to work collaboratively across the organisation and influence positive change. Comprehensive knowledge of strategic and corporate planning principles, frameworks, and processes, and an understanding of local government governance and accountability. High-level interpersonal, facilitation, and collaboration skills, with the ability to build strong relationships, engage stakeholders, and lead cross-functional initiatives. Experience in local government or the public sector (desirable). The Unley Employee Experience… They recognise the need to create an employee experience that enables the organisation's talent to thrive and provide innovative and outstanding services to their community. They provide a flexible, supportive, and inclusive environment that encourages professional development. Some of their outstanding conditions of employment and benefits are designed to attract and retain the best people. As a member of their team, you will benefit from: Supportive, flexible and inclusive work environment with work/life balance. competitive salary and conditions. ongoing support for your development and further education. complimentary access to Journey Insurance and Income Protection Fund. holistic health and wellbeing programs. More information… If you are a collaborative, strategic thinker committed to driving organisational performance and achieving community outcomes, we encourage you to apply. To obtain a copy of the Candidate Information Pack and to apply, please visit mcarthur.com.au and quote reference number J8293. Applications close 9am Wednesday 22nd October 2025 . Confidential enquiries can be directed to Rebecca Hunt or Tamara Chambers on 08 8100 7 .
