Strategic Leader, Urban Planning & Heritage

Ku-ring-gai Council; Ku-ring-gai; On-site; AUD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Attractive salary package and benefits

Job summary

Ku-ring-gai Council is seeking a strategic leader to head its Urban Planning function, delivering planning policy, heritage and environmental planning insights. You will guide a team of 10–15 professionals and work across town centres, LEPs and planning instruments to drive integrated outcomes for the Ku-ring-gai community.

The role requires strong political judgement, senior stakeholder engagement, and a proven track record in urban policy development.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in urban planning or related field.
• Strong strategic thinking and political judgement.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills.
• Experience shaping planning frameworks and policy instruments.

Responsibilities

• Lead Council's Urban Planning function and provide strategic direction.
• Oversee a team of 10–15 staff across planning, heritage and policy.
• Develop and review strategic planning framework including LEPs and DCPs.
• Coordinate with Councillors, government agencies and community stakeholders.
• Deliver high-quality planning outcomes aligned with community needs.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Urban planning

Stakeholder engagement

Policy development

Education

Town planning degree

Membership eligibility with Planning Institute of Australia

Tools

GIS

Job description

Ku-ring-gai Council is seeking a strategic leader to head its Urban Planning function, delivering planning policy, heritage and environmental planning insights. You will guide a team of 10–15 professionals and work across town centres, LEPs and planning instruments to drive integrated outcomes for the Ku-ring-gai community.

The role requires strong political judgement, senior stakeholder engagement, and a proven track record in urban policy development.