Lead – Development Services
Location: Nowra, NSW
Salary: $118,248 - $135,701 plus 12% Super
Work Type: Full Time, Permanent

Public Sector People on behalf of Shoalhaven City Council

Play a leading role in shaping the future of this growing coastal region through strategic leadership in planning and development services.

Public Sector People are proud to partner with Shoalhaven City Council to recruit a highly capable Lead – Development Services. This key leadership role oversees the coordination, management and assessment of development applications, ensuring transparent, compliant and community-focused outcomes across the Shoalhaven region.

You’ll lead a high-performing team delivering development services that balance growth, environmental integrity and statutory responsibility, while fostering a culture of accountability, innovation and continuous improvement.

About the Role
Reporting to the Manager, Development Services, you will be responsible for:

• Lead the daily operations of the Development Services Unit, guiding a team of professional planners.
• Oversee complex development assessments and ensure compliance with the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979.
• Provide expert planning advice and strategic recommendations to senior management and Council.
• Represent Council in the Land & Environment Court and other statutory proceedings.
• Drive policy development, process improvement and system efficiency across development services.
• Manage budgets and resources in alignment with Council’s strategic and financial objectives.
• Foster productive relationships with developers, government agencies and the community to support balanced decision-making.

What You’ll Bring

• Degree in Town Planning, Urban & Regional Planning or a related field.
• Extensive experience in development assessment and control under NSW planning legislation.
• Proven leadership in managing professional teams and fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability.
• Strong analytical, report-writing and advisory skills with sound planning judgment.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation and presentation abilities, confident in public forums and hearings.
• Current NSW Construction Induction Card and Class C Driver’s Licence.
• Desirable: Experience in appeal actions and eligibility for membership of the Planning Institute of Australia.

Why Shoalhaven City Council?

• Play a pivotal role in shaping the sustainable growth and character of the Shoalhaven region.
• Join a progressive council committed to continuous improvement, professional development and community outcomes.
• Access to flexible work arrangements and leadership development opportunities.
• Enjoy a supportive team culture guided by Council’s values of Respect, Integrity, Adaptability and Collaboration.
• Leaseback vehicle included.

Ready to lead development excellence across one of NSW’s most scenic and thriving coastal regions?

Contact Esme Lynch at Public Sector People on 0413 282 765 or email [email protected] for a confidential discussion.

Applications close: 11:59pm, Friday 17th November 2025.
Please note, recruitment activity may commence prior to the closing date.