Manager Infrastructure and Open Space

East Gippsland Shire Council is seeking an experienced infrastructure leader to manage the delivery of civil infrastructure, road safety and open space services across the Shire. This is a genuine sea-change opportunity — swap the commute for the coast, without compromising on career.
About the role
Reporting to the General Manager Assets and Environment, this Senior Executive Officer position leads a $40 million service area covering:

• Roads, footpaths and drainage assets, and the Shire's road safety program
• An in-house crew delivering footpath, playground and street/park furniture maintenance
• Parks, gardens, reserves and foreshores, including arborist and tree services
• Specialist assets including the Bastion Point boat ramp and the Paynesville canals

You'll lead a team of five direct reports (Civil Infrastructure Coordinator, Road Safety Coordinator, Civil Infrastructure Administration Officer, Open Space Coordinator and Open Space Officer) across a broader workforce of around 65 staff, and manage a significant program of outsourced civil infrastructure contracts alongside a largely in-house parks and gardens function.
About you
We're looking for a proven people leader and strategic operator, not necessarily an engineer. You'll bring:

• Extensive experience managing civil infrastructure and/or open space services, ideally in a local government or similar government setting
• Strong people leadership skills, with the ability to set clear expectations and drive performance across a multi-disciplinary team
• Sound financial and budget management experience
• High-level stakeholder and negotiation skills will see you work closely with the Department of Transport and Planning, contractors, committees of management, developers and the local community
• A strategic mindset with the ability to identify and deliver process and service improvements

Experience leading a similar, engineering focussed function will be highly regarded but what matters most is your leadership, judgement and stakeholder capability.
What's on offer

• An attractive salary package commensurate with experience, plus vehicle for private use
• Full-time, ongoing Senior Executive Officer contract
• The chance to lead a high-profile, high-impact portfolio with genuine autonomy
• A lifestyle change to one of regional Victoria's most sought-after coastal and lakes regions

How to apply
This search is being managed exclusively by GEM Executive. For a confidential discussion, contact Nick Kelly on [0497 476 548](tel:0497 476 548), or apply now with your resume and a brief cover letter addressing your relevant experience.
Applications close on Monday 12th October