Do you want to be at the forefront of strategic direction, advocacy and organisational excellence for one of Perth’s most dynamic and forward-thinking local governments?

About the role

The City of Canning are seeking an exceptional Principal Advisor Strategy to drive the City’s corporate strategy, advocacy and organisational excellence initiatives.

In this role, you’ll provide high-level strategic advice, drive business improvement, and deliver critical initiatives that align with the City’s long-term strategic vision and community expectations. Importantly, you’ll champion Integrated Planning Reporting and assist the City’s advocacy efforts to secure external funding, build partnerships and political support for community and strategic priorities.

Reporting to the Manager Strategy & Organisational Excellence, this unique full-time, permanent role requires a blend of strategic foresight, stakeholder engagement, and exceptional communication skills to navigate political and organisational landscapes. Please see below for more information and how to apply!

What you’ll be doing in the role:

Delivering the City’s Integrated Planning Reporting (IPR) framework, ensuring compliance with legislative and internal requirements

Developing advocacy strategies to secure external funding opportunities across government and industry

Conducting research and providing high-level advice and insights on the City’s IPR and advocacy positions.

Undertake and lead projects relevant to the Strategy, Advocacy and Organisational Excellence business unit.

Supporting the review and implementation of City Service Planning and developing KPIs that drive continuous improvement

Developing and executing change management strategies and plans to support business improvement

Cultivating relationships with key external stakeholders and City Service Areas to build alignment and momentum for strategic priorities

Preparing and presenting reports and discussion papers to Council, Committees or other forums

What you will bring to the role:

You’re a strategic thinker with a strong understanding and appreciation of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Process within a large local government organisation. Highly competent in business improvement and navigate political and organisational landscapes, you will also bring:

Substantial experience in corporate strategy, advocacy, policy and/or corporate business planning within a complex organisation

A key understanding of advocacy to educate, influence and negotiate with stakeholders from all levels

Highly capable research and analysis skills and ability to generate meaningful insights and reports

Proven experience leading business and continuous improvement initiatives and associated change management skills

Exceptional interpersonal, facilitation, and communication skills

Proven ability to manage projects and deliver timely outcomes that meet budget requirements

Political awareness and sound judgement in managing sensitive and high-profile issues

Strong track-record in successful stakeholder engagement

A satisfactory National Police Clearance (less than 6 months old)

Why you will love working at the City

A full-time permanent position that drives the strategic direction and advocacy efforts of a large, Band 1 local government

Work-life balance with a standard monthly rostered day off and ability to access a 9-Day fortnight

$119,121.91 - $133,786.04 per annum + super

17.5% paid Annual Leave Loading for when you take annual leave

We match super contributions to help you save for your future

Discounted health insurance, free flu vaccinations, skins checks and other well-being events

Free confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional support

Genuine commitment to learning and development

Membership to Canning and Riverton Leisureplexes (gym, aquatics, sauna, group fitness)

Impact the Community in a Big Way

The City of Canning aims to be a welcoming and thriving city, giving our people an opportunity to thrive through work that truly makes a difference! With a population of around 100,000 over 64 square km of land, we provide services to support and develop our community every day. We believe that engaging people with diverse backgrounds and all abilities will assist in delivering superior services to our community and are committed to the principles of equal opportunity for all.

Canning welcomes you to apply - if you’re passionate about strategy, advocacy, and driving positive change, we’d love to hear from you!

To view the position description and complete an application including your Resume and Cover Letter, visit www.canning.wa.gov.au/jobs, select the position and click “APPLY”. You may also contact Candice D’Castro, Manager Strategy & Organisational Excellence on 0403 363 632 for a confidential discussion.

Applications are open until 5pm, Sunday 20 July 2025. We reserve the right to contact applicants and close the advertising period early.