About the position The Manager People and Wellbeing provides a high level of expertise and emotional intelligence to partner with all areas of Council to lead effective, innovative, and inclusive people management practices that enhance Council’s leadership and workforce capability, promoting an engaged employee culture in line with Council’s SPIRIT values. The position will be responsible for Human Resources, Work Health and Safety, staff training and professional development, Recover at Work, and staff wellbeing initiatives. Key Responsibilities: Management and implementation of a best practice organisational workforce strategy, providing a strong focus on staff attraction and retention, professional development, contingency planning, and succession planning, that supports the achievement of Council’s Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Program, and Operational Plan. Develop and deliver Human Resources, Work Health and Safety, Recover at Work, and staff wellbeing policies and processes to achieve legislative compliance and industry best practice. Lead and support the development and implementation of best practice Work Health & Safety practice across the organisation, building the understanding and capacity of all staff to ensure that workplace safety is the organisation’s highest priority. Provide expert advice to management and staff on a broad range of complex and sometimes sensitive human resource, organisational development, and employee relations issues, reinforcing Council’s values and culture, compliant with the Award, related legislation, and industry best practice. Lead, manage, develop, and coach direct reports, and positively influence their professional development. Read the Position Description and learn more about this exciting opportunity. About You: Tertiary qualifications in Human Resource or related discipline, with equivalent industry experience. Minimum of 5 years’ experience at a leadership level. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the role of Return to Work Coordinator Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written Demonstrated problem solving and conflict resolution skills Proven experience with managing budgets What we offer 12 months Full Time Term Contract commencing March/April 2026, 35 hours per week Salary from $123,919 to $134,125 per year (depending on qualifications, skills and experience) plus 12% superannuation Motor vehicle allowance Training Courses Professional Development 40% discount on yearly Aquatic and Fitness Centre membership for staff and families at local facility (conditions apply) Access to EAP program for employees and their immediate family About Muswellbrook Muswellbrook Shire Council is a progressive local government area, located under two hours from Newcastle and Tamworth and three hours from Sydney, in the beautiful Upper Hunter Valley. The Shire has a long history in energy generation and is one of the largest coal mining areas in Australia. As we move towards a Net Zero economy, we are at the centre of renewable energy transition and innovation. Working at Muswellbrook Shire Council, you will be part of driving change to create a bright and prosperous future for our community, in a location which has plentiful opportunities and an enviable lifestyle. It is a great place to grow your career and be part of something bigger – we have space for you. Further information and to apply For more information on this position please contact the hiring manager Laura Wicks, Manager People and Wellbeing on 0490 090 941. If you need assistance or an adjustment when submitting your application please contact Human Resources on (02) 6549 3700 or via email humanresources@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au. To complete your online application, you will be asked to upload a copy of your resume and provide responses to questions which are based on the criteria listed in the Position Description. Please keep your responses concise. Any incomplete applications will not be considered past the closure date. Please note that as part of Muswellbrook shire Council's recruitment process, prior to an offer of employment being made, recommended candidates may be subject to a medical assessment which may include alcohol and other drugs testing. Applications close on 23 January 2026 at 11:59pm. The Welcome Experience The Welcome Experience in Muswellbrook connects you and your family with local people and local resources to help you settle in and feel at home in your new community faster. Learn more at The Welcome Experience : Muswellbrook Shire Council (nsw.gov.au)
