• Looking for a tree change? Enjoy a rural community lifestyle!
• Fantastic opportunity to advance your career in a vibrant local community!
• Receive an attractive salary starting from $82,773 (depending on experience/qualifications) PLUS super and salary packaging options!
• Additional benefits include relocation assistance for the right applicant, an RDO every three weeks, ongoing professional development opportunities and negotiable flexibility!

Our story

Gunnedah Shire Council is an integral part of the Gunnedah community, a vibrant, warm and friendly town surrounded by the expansive Liverpool Plains and framed by the Kelvin Ranges. The Koala Capital of the world offers much more than just our famous furry friends! With a population of approximately 13085, Gunnedah is a commodity hub and major destination on the intersection of the Kamilaroi Highway Touring Route and Oxley Highway.

We now have an exciting opportunity for a Team Leader Economic Development to join our team in Gunnedah, NSW.

What you'll receive

In this role, you will enjoy working within an organisation with a great culture and a shire with a fantastic sense of community!

You will also receive an attractive salary starting from $88,192 (depending on experience/qualifications) PLUS a range of additional benefits, including;

• Salary packaging;
• Relocation assistance for the right applicant;
• Flexible working options, with hybrid work and the ability to work from home on occasion;
• Ongoing professional development opportunities, including subsidised external training up to $2000 per year;
• RDOs every three weeks; and
• Opportunity to mentor and develop staff.

It is important to note that we are not only invested in the people of Gunnedah but also heavily invested in our employees and their future careers.

Your Opportunity

Reporting to the Manager Economy and Growth, you will be responsible for operating within and promoting the virtues of Council's core values. You will have a focus on building sustainable economic resilience in the shire through diversification, preparation, rapid response and recovery especially to mitigate natural disasters or external shocks. You will also be responsible for recording and reporting of research and data to support continued population and economic growth.

Core duties:

• Activating the Gunnedah Economic Development Strategy and delivering agreed priority projects.
• Driving the development, implementation and promotion of the strategic economic development framework for the Gunnedah Shire Council to facilitate the sustainable economic growth and prosperity of the Shire.
• Promotion and facilitation of economic development, business and employment opportunities in the Gunnedah Shire to ensure it maintains vibrant and viable businesses, commercial and industrial centres and allowing the Shire to thrive economically and socially.
• Providing services and support to the business community, to assist them in becoming more competitive and informed.
• Providing timely advice and support potential businesses and developers.
• Assisting in the implementation and further development of the Gunnedah Community Strategic Plan.
• Actively attracting businesses and services to the Shire.
• Identifying, promoting and assisting in the implementation of relevant government, education and industry business development and funding programs that aim to promote and grow local business and industry sectors and benefit the broader business community.

You will also be joining an organisation committed to the ongoing development of its people.

For further information please contact Manager Economy and Growth, Susan Frater on 02 6740 2174 or click here to see the position description.

What we need from you

To be successful in this role, you will bring qualifications in economic development, economics, marketing or significant demonstrated experience in a similar role. Although not essential, experience working in a local government environment will be advantageous.

Due to the nature of the role, strong time management and prioritisation skills will be required for success, as well as outstanding attention to detail. The ability to work effectively within a small team and take responsibility for your work will also be required. The ability to mentor and lead other team members will be well-regarded.

Your communication and interpersonal skills will enable you to interact effectively with this role's diverse range of internal and external stakeholders. You will take the time to understand your customers, seek unique solutions and will to obtain a positive impact for the individual and the community in the short and longer term.

Please note: You must have an unrestricted Australian driver's license.

Living and working in Gunnedah

"Gunnedah is a thriving country town with endless opportunities. Gunnedah provides fresh air, elegant views, endless sunsets and open arms. My favourite thing about here is not having to be stuck in traffic for hours, after moving from a major capital city, yet having access to everything you need for a quality lifestyle. Gunnedah has a flourishing economy with a range of activities to do and explore. You can even stargaze at the luxury of your own backyard!" - Kalana Tennakoon, Gunnedah Shire Council's CFO

How to Apply

Please read the Position Description by clicking on the link above. It is important to read this carefully to understand what the job involves.

No candidate will meet every single desired qualification or skill. If your experience looks a little different from what we have identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we would love to learn more about you!

If this sounds like you, click the Apply button below, complete the application form. Please ensure you answer all questions and upload a current resume and cover letter outlining your suitability for this role, as well as any copies of relevant qualifications that support your application.

Applications close: Monday 7 July 2025 at 5:00PM

Further information

As part of the recruitment process, suitable applicants will be required to complete pre-employment screening which may include relevant background checks, functional capacity assessment and drug and alcohol screening.

Our recruitment process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting your application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes.

Email notifications may include application confirmation, interview invitations, request for references, and application outcomes. Please check your email regularly, including your junk email.

Council is an equal opportunity employer is committed to a merit-based workforce that encompasses inclusiveness and diversity in an environment of mutual respect. We invite, encourage, welcome and value candidate of all ages and from all backgrounds.

For all enquiries regarding the application and recruitment process, please contact the People and Culture team on 02 6740 2118or [email protected]