Senior Officer Contract – Maximum Term
About Us
Located 35km to the southeast of Melbourne, Greater Dandenong City Council covers 129 square kilometres and has a population of over 169,000 people. The central activities district is Melbourne's second largest retail and commercial centre and includes large shopping complexes at Dandenong and Keysborough as well as the highly popular Dandenong Market.
Greater Dandenong City Council is the most culturally diverse locality in Australia, with residents from over 150 different birthplaces, nearly two-thirds of whom were born overseas. Key industries include manufacturing, health care and social assistance, retail trade, wholesale trade and transport.
We are a progressive organisation of exceptional character that offers a dynamic and rewarding work environment to approximately 900 employees. We recognise that our staff are vital to the delivery of excellent service to our community and the achievement of our long-term vision. We invest in the development of our people, and we strive to be a workplace that is respectful, engaged, accountable, creative and honest.
About the role
This is a senior leadership role responsible for the effective management and continuous improvement of the City Development Department, ensuring compliance, strategic alignment, and high-quality service delivery to the community
The primary objective of the Manager City Development is to provide strategic leadership and effective management across the Planning, Building, and Health Services Department, ensuring that best-practice strategies are developed and implemented for Statutory Planning, Public Health, Building Services, and Planning Compliance. The role is responsible for aligning departmental activities with the long-term strategic direction and financial sustainability of the Council, while fostering a culture of collaboration, integrity, and high performance in line with Council’s REACH values. This includes accountability for strategic and financial planning, program and staff development, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and service standards. The Manager is expected to deliver high-quality statutory services, support the Executive Director City Futures, and provide expert advice to the Executive and Councillors. Additionally, the role involves leading the integration of land use planning functions, promoting safer buildings and improved public health, and driving continuous improvement and innovation within the department to meet both organisational and community needs.
About you
The Manager City Development role requires strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop staff while fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. Strategic planning and implementation are essential, as the role involves translating strategic directions into actionable plans and overseeing major projects and departmental initiatives. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills are critical, enabling the Manager to provide high-quality advice, negotiate effectively, and build strong relationships both within the organization and with external partners. A deep understanding of relevant legislation and regulations, such as the Planning and Environment Act and Building Act, is necessary to ensure compliance and provide expert guidance. The role also demands proficiency in financial and resource management, including preparing and managing budgets and business plans. Commitment to continuous improvement and innovation is important, as is the ability to manage projects, contracts, and service agreements to meet community needs. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills are required to address complex issues and deliver high-quality services, while a customer service orientation and a thorough understanding of compliance and safety standards are also essential for success in this position.
Please ensure you address the key selection criteria outlined in the position description as part of your application.
The successful candidate will be asked to produce a valid Working with Children Check and will be asked toconsent to a national police check (and where relevant an ‘international criminal history check’), subject to the operation of spent conviction laws. Please note that people with criminal records are not automatically barred from applying for this position. Each application will be considered on its merits.
Benefits of working with us
Council believes in providing an environment where staff thrive, both in the work they do and in how they learn and develop as people and professionals.
Our workplace has an inclusive and diverse culture which encourages innovation and supports your work and life balance. There are plenty of opportunities to learn, develop and grow your career within our expanding and diverse organisation.
Our benefits include
· Competitive salary
· Salary sacrifice childcare (where available)
· Flexible working options supported including hybrid work
· Access to learning & development programs including study assistance
· Reward & recognition programs
· Health initiatives
· Access to our support and wellbeing programs
· A vibrant social club
For more information about our benefits, please visit our careers page: Working with Us
Council will consider flexible working arrangements for all positions. We embrace our diverse community and encourage applications from everyone including people of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander background, people of diverse sexual orientation and gender, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and people of varied age, ability, and faith. Council will give due consideration to any workplace adjustments to accommodate the needs of any prospective or existing staff member.
Council is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment and promoting cultural safety and wellbeing for children with zero tolerance for child abuse and harm.
To apply
To apply for this position please complete the online application form including:
· A brief cover letter
· Your resume
· Response to key selection criteria
You will be required to answer selection questions as part of the application process. The selection process also includes the requirement for reference checks
Position Description: Manager City Development – 364.7 KB
Applications close: 5pm, Monday, 13 October 2025
Further information: Sanjay Manivasagasivam, 8571 5293
