Manager Statutory Planning – Mornington Peninsula Shire

• Lead statutory planning outcomes across one of Victoria’s most significant growth and tourism regions
• Drive service improvement, planning reform and customer-focused development outcomes
• Manage complex planning matters while building trusted relationships across Council, government, industry and the community

Mornington Peninsula Shire is Victoria's premier destination municipality, celebrated for its vibrant townships, thriving agriculture, world-class landscapes, iconic tourist regions, and internationally significant conservation areas within a vital Green Wedge. As the state's fifth largest Local Government Area, the Shire delivers more than 100 essential services to a diverse and growing community of 170,000 residents. These services encompass infrastructure, community wellbeing, environmental stewardship, economic development and cultural initiatives, all supporting prosperity and liveability across the region. Home to one of Australia's most dynamic tourism industries, the Mornington Peninsula attracts over 8 million visitors each year, generates $9.5 billion in economic output and sustains more than 62,000 jobs, underpinning its role as a cornerstone of Victoria's visitor economy. Balancing growth, environmental protection and community expectations, the Shire plays a critical role in shaping one of the state's most valued and distinctive regions.

Reporting to the Director Planning and Liveability, the Manager, Statutory Planning will provide strong and strategic leadership across planning and development. Leading a high-performing team, you will oversee the delivery of timely, transparent and customer-focused statutory planning services in a complex and highly visible environment. You will take personal responsibility for managing significant, sensitive and sometimes controversial proposals, ensuring sound outcomes that balance community needs, legislative requirements and Council's strategic objectives. Central to the role will be devising and implementing policies, systems and strategies that enhance service delivery, strengthen decision-making and improve operational effectiveness, while fostering productive engagement with Council, the Executive, developers, government agencies and the broader community. You will also play a lead role in resolving disputes through mediation, negotiation and community involvement, helping to achieve fair, transparent and sustainable planning outcomes.

To be successful in this role, you will bring substantial leadership experience within large, complex planning, development or regulatory environments. You will demonstrate a proven ability to deliver contemporary planning services and implement strategies that translate vision into practical, customer-focused outcomes. With exceptional communication, political acumen and stakeholder management skills, you will build trusted relationships across Council, government, industry and the community. Confident navigating sensitive social, political, environmental and economic issues, you will bring sound judgement, commercial awareness and a collaborative leadership style. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the long-term liveability, sustainability and prosperity of the Mornington Peninsula by shaping planning and development outcomes that support growth while protecting the character and values that make the region exceptional.

To view more information about this opportunity please review this Position Description linked here: https://tinyurl.com/4kkcjest

To apply, please click ‘apply now’ and upload your CV and Cover Letter. For any questions not outlined in the PD and for a confidential discussion, please contact Alex Mumme on 0474 434 868.

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