Manager Development Assessment in Liverpool

At Liverpool City Council we’re embarking on critical growth projects for our city. For planning professionals with experience and purpose, this is a unique opportunity to be part of a team that’s building a city that will set new standards for excellence.

As a Manager, you will lead, manage and develop the Development Assessment department in the assessment, monitoring and reporting of development applications and provide high level expert advice on a diverse and complex range of strategic and operational activities relating to growth and development in the Liverpool Local Government Area including the Western Sydney International Airport and surrounding Aerotropolis.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare reports for Planning Panels and Council on development applications and other matters relating to the development assessment department.
• Manage the Council’s Local Planning Panel (LPP) and Design Excellence Panel (DEP).
• Monitor and review LPP and DEP processes and revise and progress amendments to the Charters and procedures as required.
• Support the Director in the delivery of effective and efficient outcomes for Council and driving continuous improvement to improve productivity and service delivery.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to Liverpool’s strategic direction, drive cultural change, and deliver positive outcomes for the community.

About You

To be successful in this role, you must have:

• Degree qualifications in town planning, regional and/or urban planning and/or other relevant qualifications recognised by the Planning Institute of Australia.
• Current Class C NSW Driver's Licence.
• Proven strong leadership and management skills and ability to effectively lead, mentor and coach a diverse team.
• High level of professional knowledge and demonstrated experience in the delivery of development assessment services in a local government environment.
• Advanced understanding of planning legislation and demonstrated ability to interpret planning instruments and provide expert planning advice.
• Demonstrated sound interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated research skills and experience in complex report writing and reviewing.
• Proven conflict resolution and mediation skills and the capacity to achieve win-win outcomes in difficult negotiations.
• Track record of success in initiating and driving change and continuous improvement in a diverse service environment.
• Highly developed organisational, time management and project management skills with demonstrated ability to work effectively under pressure, coordinate work teams, manage competing priorities and achieve deadlines.
• Sound understanding of and commitment to excellence in customer service.
• Experience in identifying and responding to Councillor, community and customer needs in the delivery of quality customer service outcomes.

Benefits

• Council leaseback vehicle or car allowance.
• Salary will be dependent on the relevant skills, experience, and competencies of the successful applicant within the specified range.
• Flexible work options - hybrid working arrangements.
• Ability to access 2 health and wellbeing days per year.
• Be part of a passionate, energetic, and supportive multi-disciplinary team.
• Great office location in the heart of the Liverpool CBD, close to public transport and with subsidised parking available.

Liverpool City Council is committed to providing a working environment that supports all employees to reach their full potential. To be eligible to apply for permanent positions at Liverpool City Council, you need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and value diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We encourage all applicants, including First Nation people, people with disability, LGBTIQ and culturally diverse communities to join Council.

All successful candidates will be required to obtain a National Police Check as part of the recruitment process and may be required to undergo a pre-employment medical check.

How to apply

Please click the 'Apply' button above. Applicants must submit a covering letter outlining your interest and how your background and experience suit this opportunity, as well as your resume.

CLOSING 29/1/2026

Be part of creating the future, for further information about the position please contact Samata Billa, Talent Acquisition Partner at bilas@liverpool.nsw.gov.au.