General Manager
Central Highlands Council
About the Role
Selection Criteria
- A Keen Understanding of Rural Challenges – demonstrated experience in a rural/regional environment, to better understand the challenges facing such a community like limited access to essential services as healthcare and transport.
- A strong financial focus – to not only ensure the future financial sustainability of the Council but to also help navigate with commercial investors in the Region projects that add to the lifestyle of our community.
- An effective communicator – bringing good writing skills to articulate messages and Council reports at a high professional standard, so that ideas are presented in a logical, coherent, and structured manner, and an active listener, to provide strategic advice to the Mayor and Councillors, and to network with and lobby government representatives and politicians to market and promote the Region.
- Strong leadership and people management skills – an ability to motivate teams and achieve high standards of performance – by being compassionate and supportive
- Strategic thinker – demonstrated experience as a big picture thinker – a visionary who can help the Council and the Region achieve the future.
- An ability to market and promote a place – to bring investment, new residents and visitors to the region
- Customer service – experience in promoting excellence in customer service and use of customer surveys and satisfaction feedback.
- Relevant qualifications and or senior executive experience.
Hamilton, TAS
5.00pm Monday 29 September 2025
Work where the landscape is wide, and the work has meaning
Central Highlands Council governs one of Tasmania’s most distinctive regions – a place shaped by alpine lakes, open farmland, and strong community ties. The Council area spans more than 8,000 square kilometres and includes the townships of Bothwell, Hamilton, Ouse and Miena. The region is known for its role in hydro-electricity generation, agriculture, and as a destination for bushwalking, trout fishing and wilderness tourism. Its community is practical, independent, and deeply connected to place.
This role offers the chance to lead a capable organisation with sound finances, clear goals and a commitment to delivering value to its communities. As General Manager, you will report to the Mayor and Councillors and provide strategic and operational leadership across all areas of the Council’s business. This includes leading the workforce, delivering services, advising on policy and planning matters, and ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the organisation.
We’re looking for a senior leader with strong experience in local government, preferably in a regional or rural context. You’ll bring a constructive and reliable approach, with proven skills in people leadership, governance, finance, and community engagement. You will work respectfully with elected members, staff, the community, investors and government, with sound judgement in navigating competing priorities. Professionally, this is an outstanding opportunity to grow your reputation in a high-impact leadership role where your contribution will be visible and valued. Personally, it’s an opportunity to enjoy a lifestyle surrounded by nature, with strong schools, a welcoming community, and easy access to Hobart.
Attractive Remuneration range to suit most candidates
Next Steps
- Read the Information Pack and Selection Criteria.
- Please use the form below to send us your resume.
- Once you have done this, please call Stephen on 0412 255 149 for a confidential discussion about the role.
- You will receive an email (check your Junk/Spam folder) with a link to download the Application Form. Please complete this and return to stephen@sbc.net.au by the close date.