At Central Highlands Regional Council, you'll have the opportunity to make a genuine and lasting impact on the communities, infrastructure and services that support one of Queensland's most diverse and significant regions.
Central Highlands Regional Council spans approximately 60,000 square kilometres, from Arcadia Valley in the south to the Peak Ranges in the north, and from Boolburra in the east to Bogantungan in the west. Managing more than $1.1 billion in community assets, Council delivers a diverse range of services through libraries, aquatic centres, customer service centres, 4,632 kilometres of roads, and extensive parks and recreational facilities.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a progressive regional Council. Home to nationally significant coal and energy operations, a strong agricultural sector and diverse regional communities, the Central Highlands plays a vital role in Queensland's economy and future growth.
Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Director Operations is a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, responsible for shaping strategic direction, strengthening operational performance and driving organisational culture and excellence.
Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will lead a diverse portfolio encompassing infrastructure, project management, water utilities, parks and open spaces, and disaster management. You will champion a safety-first approach, fostering an accountable and high-performing culture, and driving continuous improvement in service delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the delivery of Council's strategic and operational plans, budgets, policies and programs.
- Contribute to enterprise strategy as a member of the Executive Leadership Team.
- Develop long-term operational plans aligned with Council's vision and community objectives.
- Manage budgets and business plans that support Council's Corporate Plan and financial sustainability.
- Oversee major projects, ensuring delivery is achieved on time, within budget and to agreed standards.
- Build strong relationships with government, industry, contractors and community stakeholders.
- Provide visible leadership in workplace health, safety and risk management.
- Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation and customer service.
- Lead and inspire multidisciplinary teams to achieve high performance and continuous improvement.
The successful applicant will be a technically experienced executive leader with a track record of delivering results and leading teams in complex operational environments. They will be a visible, agile and credible leader who builds capability, inspires confidence and focuses on strengthening safety performance.
You Will Bring
- Proven leadership experience managing large multidisciplinary teams across infrastructure, engineering, works, asset management or related services.
- Strong strategic planning and execution capability, with the ability to translate vision into measurable outcomes.
- Tertiary qualifications in Civil Engineering, Business, Project Management or a related discipline.
- Highly developed communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong commercial acumen, including budget, procurement and contract management experience.
- The judgement and resilience to manage competing priorities in a dynamic and politically sensitive environment.
Why join CHRC?
This is more than an executive leadership role. It is an opportunity to influence the future of a region, deliver meaningful outcomes for communities, and lead large-scale projects and services that make a tangible difference every day.
Whether you're looking to grow your career, make a genuine impact, or achieve a better work-life balance, you'll find the opportunity at Central Highlands Regional Council. Join a team that supports your development, values your contribution, and helps you build the future you want.
- Want a diverse and progressive career? Choose it here.
- Ready to make real impact with people who care? Choose it here.
- Looking for a better balance and the life you want? Choose it here.
If you are a collaborative and forward-thinking leader seeking the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy, we encourage you to apply.
For a strictly confidential discussion, please contact Ian Quinn or Mark Phillips at Dean & Ling Executive on 0414 609 604 or (07) 3211 1018. Alternatively, submit your application via the Apply button or visit www.deanling.com.au
Applications close midnight 28 October 2026.
For further information on Central Highlands Regional Council, visit www.chrc.qld.gov.au