Manager People & Culture 'Strategic HR Leadership role, great career and lifestyle opportunity.' McArthur is proud to partner with Colac Otway Shire Council to lead the recruitment of their Manager People & Culture . This key role offers the opportunity to join a collaborative, high-performing senior leadership team and to make a meaningful impact across the organisation. Why you'll love working at Colac Otway Shire Council: Senior Leadership Opportunity Initiate and lead key initiatives that directly shape organisational outcomes Supportive and inclusive work environment Unique work and lifestyle location About Colac Otway Shire: Located just two hours south-west of Melbourne and one hour from Geelong, Colac Otway offers a unique lifestyle, combining career opportunity with the natural beauty of the Great Ocean Road, Otway rainforests and northern lakes. With a strong economy built on primary industries, tourism, and community services, it's a fantastic place to live, work, and grow your career. About the Role: As Manager People & Culture , you will provide strategic leadership across Organisational Development, Employee and Industrial Relations, Human Resources, Payroll, and Workplace Health and Safety. You will drive a safe, inclusive, and compliant workplace, delivering contemporary HR and OHS policies and advice that support a capable, customer-focused organisation and the wellbeing of all staff. Key Responsibilities include: Effective leadership and guidance across Organisational Development, Employee and Industrial Relations, Human Resources, Payroll Services and Workplace Health and Safety. Lead the implementation of Council's workforce planning and workplace diversity strategies. Lead the organisation in achieving a 'zero-harm', safe working environment. Provide leadership, specialist advice, guidance and support regarding current industrial award provisions, legislative matters and change management processes. Represent Council in discussions or negotiations with Unions or legal representation. Develop and implement processes and strategies that will enhance our employee and community experience. About you: To be successful in this role you'll bring proven HR and OHS expertise, strong leadership, and the ability to balance strategic insight with operational delivery. You are a collaborative and supportive leader, naturally 'people focused' who combines approachability with strong, values-driven decision making. Your background will include: Demonstrated experience across the full range of HR functions - ER/IR, recruitment, workforce planning, performance management, HR policy and compliance. Strong knowledge of Employment Law and industrial relations frameworks, with the ability to resolve complex issues. A track record of leading People and Culture teams and building capability across organisations. The confidence to provide practical advice to senior leaders and managers. A hands-on, outcomes-focused approach, with excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills. Tertiary qualifications in HR, Industrial Relations, or Organisational Development would be highly regarded for this role. Experience working within a large, complex or similar environment would be necessary. Guided by shared values and a clear strategic vision, Colac Otway Shire Council is committed to building capable, high-performing teams that work with integrity, openness and initiative. This is your chance to lead a positive, people-centred culture that encourages innovation and growth, and to be part of a supportive local government organisation. To apply, please go to www.mcarthur.com.au and quote job reference number J8793 in the search bar. For a confidential discussion, please contact: Danielle Jupp on Ph: (03) 9828 6565 or M: 0403 398 242. Applications will close by Tuesday 27 th January 2026.
