About the role

As the Head of People & Culture Operations, you will lead the delivery of Council's core people services, including business partnering and employee relations, talent acquisition and payroll. You'll guide a team that provides practical and timely support to leaders across the organisation, helping them manage people matters, navigate workplace issues and build high performing teams. You will also oversee employee and industrial relations matters, including being the primary liaison with union representatives, and ensure people practices meet legislative and compliance requirements.

This is a strategic leadership role focused on strengthening workforce capability, improving HR systems and processes, and using workforce data to support informed de-centralised decision-making. In this role you will lead key projects and drive improvements across people services. Success in this role means delivering reliable, customer-focused HR services that help create a positive workplace culture and support Council's long-term goals.

This is a full-time permanent (38 hours per week) band 8 role with a salary range between $128,554 and $138,596 per annum, plus superannuation.

Benefits of working with us:

Support work-life balance with the option of monthly rostered day off and hybrid working arrangements.

20 weeks paid primary caregiver leave (6 weeks for secondary caregivers) plus other generous leave options such as volunteer leave, family planning and menstrual and menopause leave.

Opportunities for professional development and to take on temporary roles in other teams to grow your skills and experience.

Novated lease vehicle options.

Experience and skills we’re looking for

Experience leading people and culture, human resources or employee relations functions in a complex organisation.

Strong knowledge of workplace relations, employment legislation, enterprise agreements and HR compliance requirements.

Experience providing advice and support on employee relations and industrial relations matters.

The ability to lead, coach and develop a team to deliver high-quality services and outcomes.

Experience building positive relationships with leaders, employees, unions and other stakeholders.

Demonstrated experience improving HR systems, processes or workforce management practices.

Strong analytical skills and the ability to use workforce data, reports and insights to support decision-making.

Experience leading projects, policy reviews or organisational improvement initiatives.

The ability to communicate clearly, influence outcomes and manage complex or sensitive discussions professionally.

A commitment to delivering customer-focused services and creating inclusive, respectful and high-performing workplaces.

If you have some but not all these skills or experience, we still encourage you to apply. Especially if you have the right attitude and willingness to learn.

How to apply

Please ensure you submit your application via our jobs portal by clicking ‘Apply’. Include a resume and cover letter with your application. In your cover letter, tell us about your experience, skills, and why you would like to work with us here at Yarra Ranges Council.

Applications close 11.59pm, Sunday the 30th of August 2026.

Contact person: Jarrod Reid, Manager People & Culture, 03 •••• •523.

If you need support with your application or have accessibility needs, please call the contact person above or email us at [email protected]

Applicants who progress past the interview stage must complete pre-employment checks. These checks will include a Police Check & may include Psychometric Assessment.

About Yarra Ranges Council

Yarra Ranges Council committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome. We encourage people of all genders, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities to apply for jobs with us. We support flexible work arrangements, including full-time, part-time, hybrid, and job-sharing options to meet your needs and suit your life.

Yarra Ranges Council is a child safe organisation and is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people in our community. We are committed to protecting children from abuse in accordance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards.