Manager Development Services in Derby

The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley encompasses the towns of Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Camballin, and 54 Aboriginal Communities throughout the region. Living in Derby and Fitzroy Crossing offers a relaxed and vibrant lifestyle, with a wide range of leisure activities such as exceptional fishing, boating, sightseeing, community events, and sports. The locals are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making it easy to feel at home.

This region is also home to breathtaking and untouched wilderness areas, including the iconic Buccaneer Archipelago, Gibb River Road, Fitzroy River, and Geikie Gorge. If you’re eager to experience the beauty of the wet season and immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture, this is the perfect opportunity.

At the Shire, we value the unique backgrounds, experiences, and contributions that each person brings to our community. We encourage and celebrate diversity, welcoming applications from Aboriginal people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, women, individuals of all ages, people with disabilities, and culturally and linguistically diverse individuals. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.

Benefits of Working in the Shire:

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to nature and outdoor activities, allowing for a fulfilling work-life balance.
• Cultural Enrichment: Gain a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture by working closely with local communities and participating in cultural events.
• Natural Beauty: Be surrounded by stunning landscapes and explore some of Australia’s most pristine wilderness areas during your time off.
• Community Spirit: Join a close-knit, welcoming community where you can form lasting friendships and feel a strong sense of belonging.
• Personal Growth: Experience living and working in a unique environment that fosters both personal and professional development.
• 5 Weeks Annual Leave: Benefit from an extended leave package, giving you more time to relax and recharge.
• Up to 7% Council-Matching Super Contributions: Boost your retirement savings with generous employer contributions.
• Novated Leasing: Enjoy the convenience and tax advantages of novated leasing for your vehicle.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access professional support for your mental health and well-being.
• Free Pool Entry: Enjoy free access to the local pool following your probation period, encouraging an active lifestyle.

If you’re ready to embark on a rewarding adventure in one of Australia’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions, apply now!

Lead with integrity. Deliver sustainable community outcomes.
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley is seeking an experienced and values‑driven Manager Development Services to provide strategic leadership across planning, building, environmental health, waste management and emergency services.

Reporting to the Director Community Planning, this role supports Council, the Executive and the organisation to meet legislative, statutory and governance obligations while delivering effective and customer‑focused services. The position balances strategic leadership with operational oversight and contributes to sustainable community and economic development.

About the Role:

This role offers an exceptional total remuneration package valued between $202,000 and $238,000, including superannuation and council contributions. With housing and a fully‑provided vehicle included, you can enjoy strong financial security and reduced living expenses.

The Manager Development Services is responsible for the leadership and management of the Shire’s Development Services portfolio, including:

• Town Planning
• Building Services
• Environmental and Aboriginal Health
• Waste Management
• Emergency Services

The role ensures services are delivered lawfully, consistently and efficiently, while supporting continuous improvement and positive community outcomes.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Lead and manage the Shire’s Development Services functions including planning, building, environmental health, waste and emergency management.
• Ensure compliance with statutory, legislative and governance requirements across all service areas.
• Provide expert advice and recommendations to Council, senior management, staff and the community.
• Oversee planning and building applications to ensure efficient and timely service delivery.
• Manage environmental health programs, licencing, compliance and Aboriginal health initiatives.
• Support emergency management planning and implementation, including cyclone and storm surge preparedness.
• Develop and review policies, procedures, local laws and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead, mentor and support staff while fostering a positive, customer-focused workplace culture.
• Manage budgets, resources and operational priorities in line with the Shire’s strategic objectives.
• Build strong relationships with government agencies, developers, consultants and community stakeholders.

Essential

1. Bachelor of Arts (Urban and Regional Planning), Environmental Health, Emergency Management OR substantial progress towards relevant qualifications.
2. Experience in a senior management role, with a proven ability to lead, inspire and mentor staff to deliver individual and team outcomes, maintain service outcomes and improve productivity.
3. A proven capacity to deal with complex community, development, economic and regulatory services issues including the formulation of appropriate action strategies and the provision of high level advice to the Executive team and Council.
4. Strong analytical, problem solving, conflict resolution and mediation skills including public relations, community engagement, and public education; striving for mutually beneficial outcomes across a broad range of stakeholders.
5. Excellent communication skills including the ability to prepare high quality written reports, policies, action plans, correspondence and other documentation as required.
6. Highly proactive and self-motivated with a continuous improvement attitude and commitment to a high customer service ethos.
7. Excellent collaboration and interpersonal skills with the ability to work in partnership with senior leaders, managers and staff to implement organisational improvements.
8. Knowledge of contemporary Work Health and Safety practices.
9. Current “C” Class Drivers Licence.
10. Current Police Clearance – to be maintained while employed.

Desirable

1. Knowledge in the operation of Synergy Soft.
2. Working knowledge of consultation and adoption practices pertaining to the implementation of local planning strategies and planning schemes, and planning scheme amendments.

To Apply
To apply submit a cover letter of no more than two (2) pages, addressing the selection criteria (listed below) and a current resume with two relevant professional references through the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley career portal https://www.sdwk.wa.gov.au/work-with-us/working-at-the-shire.aspx

POSITION DESCRIPTION: Manager Development Services (alternatively email recruitment@sdwk.wa.gov.au for a copy)