Manager Growth and Community Partnerships

Manager Growth and Community Partnerships

• Limited Term Contract (4 years)
• Attractive salary package of circa $220,000 per annum (including superannuation and vehicle)
• Relocation Support – assistance to help you and your family settle into Rockhampton

Lead Community Transformation

Are you a strategic leader passionate about shaping vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable communities?

Rockhampton Regional Council is seeking a collaborative Manager to lead our newly established Growth and Community Partnerships section.

As Manager Growth and Community Partnerships, you will play a pivotal role in driving long-term planning, environmental sustainability, sport and active communities, grants, and strategic initiatives that support inclusive and sustainable growth across the region.

How You’ll make an Impact

As Manager Growth and Community Partnerships, you will:

• Lead a multidisciplinary team across community planning, sustainability, sport, grants, and strategic initiatives
• Drive integrated planning and service delivery aligned with Council’s Corporate Plan
• Oversee major projects including Olympic coordination, housing, and homelessness support
• Champion environmental sustainability and community infrastructure planning
• Foster strong partnerships with government, industry, and community stakeholders

This is a unique opportunity to influence regional development and create lasting community impact through strategic leadership and collaboration.

This position requires the completion of a satisfactory Criminal History Check - Police Certificate (Australia Wide Name Only Police Check).

To thrive in this role, you’ll have

• Proven executive leadership in local government or similar sectors
• Strong strategic planning, governance, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Experience managing complex, cross-functional teams and projects
• Tertiary qualifications in planning, community development, or related fields

Rockhampton is the place to be

As the heart of Central Queensland, Rockhampton offers unmatched access to opportunity, lifestyle, and regional connectivity:

• Strategic Infrastructure: The region boasts extensive transport infrastructure including national highways, rail networks, an airport with direct flights to major cities, and proximity to port facilities. 
• Economic Momentum: With over $12 billion in projects underway or planned, Rockhampton is experiencing significant growth across sectors including resources, agribusiness, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing. 
• Lifestyle Advantage: Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to natural attractions such as the Fitzroy River, Mount Archer National Park, and the Capricorn Coast. The region offers excellent education, health, and recreational facilities, making it ideal for families and professionals. 
• Tourism & Events Hub: Rockhampton hosts major events such as Beef Australia and Rockynats, and is renowned for its heritage architecture, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventure opportunities. 
• Affordability & Liveability: The region combines affordable living with high-quality amenities, offering a unique value proposition for those seeking career advancement without compromising lifestyle.

Want to know more? Visit our Live Rockhampton site as a guide to our region.

Ready for what’s next?

To apply for this opportunity, please submit two documents:

1. A 4-5 page Cover Letter addressing the Application Criteria below; and

2. Your Current resume.

Applicants are required to address the following criteria, demonstrating relevant experience, achievements, and alignment with Rockhampton Regional Council’s strategic goals and values.

Application Criteria

 1.    Strategic Leadership and Integration

Demonstrate your ability to lead a multidisciplinary section encompassing strategic planning, community master planning, sport and active communities, environmental sustainability, grants, and strategic projects. Provide examples of how you have driven integration, reduced duplication, and delivered coordinated outcomes aligned with organisational strategy.

2.    Community Infrastructure and Place-Making

Outline your experience in long-term planning for community infrastructure and public spaces. Highlight your ability to deliver inclusive, responsive, and future focused master plans and strategic frameworks that enhance liveability and community wellbeing.

3.    Environmental Sustainability and Innovation

Describe your leadership in developing and implementing environmental sustainability strategies. Include examples of how you have embedded sustainability into organisational culture, improved performance, and delivered measurable outcomes.

4.    Grants, Advocacy and Strategic Projects

Provide evidence of your success in securing external funding through grants and advocacy. Detail your experience in leading strategic projects such as housing initiatives, homelessness support, or major event coordination (e.g. Olympic Games).

5.    Stakeholder Engagement and Governance

Demonstrate your ability to build strong relationships with internal teams, government agencies, and community stakeholders. Highlight your governance experience, including performance tracking, reporting, and accountability across diverse portfolios. 

Please use Council’s cover letter template and ensure you clearly label each Application Criteria in your cover letter.

Click the ‘Apply’ button to complete your online application.

Applications Close: Monday 1 June 2026 at Midnight (AEST)