About us

Dungog Shire Council supports a growing rural community of almost 10,000 residents in the vibrant and picturesque Hunter region of NSW. We are committed to ensuring the ongoing and consistent delivery of local services that are valued by our community and will be for generations to come.

It is anticipated that our population will grow by 1.9% per annum over the next 20 years as per the Hunter Regional Plan, higher than the state growth average. With an additional 2,400 dwellings to be provided over the term of the Hunter Regional Plan, Dungog will be the second fastest growing LGA in the Hunter Region.

Dungog is ideally located just over an hour north of Newcastle and within close proximity to a range of other regional hubs in the Hunter Valley, such as Maitland and Raymond Terrace. We have an enviable lifestyle with easy access to World Heritage listed sites, such as Barrington Tops National Park.

Your next opportunity

Following a comprehensive service review, Council has established a fit-for-purpose organisational structure designed to strengthen capability, support long term financial sustainability and enhance customer experience, service integration and governance.

We are now seeking a strategic, innovative and experienced leader to join our Executive team and help shape the future direction and performance of Council.

Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Director Strategy & Organisational Delivery will provide high-level leadership across Council's internal capability and transformation agenda. This pivotal role is responsible for driving organisational performance and enabling sustainable growth through strong governance, strategic planning and continuous improvement. The portfolio spans a diverse range of functions including finance, workforce technology, workplace safety and customer experience and will be responsible for ensuring our frontline and internal services are responsive to the needs of our growing region.

If you are a values-driven leader with a proven track record in organisational strategy, transformation and service delivery, we invite you to be a part of shaping the future of our community. 

For further details, please refer to the Position Description and Recruitment Information Pack available on our website.

Essential selection criteria include (full criteria in the Position Description below):

• Degree qualifications in Business or a related field.
• Applied knowledge of local government legislation, corporate governance, risk management and public finance standards.
• Demonstrated experience in change management and business improvement processes including digitalisation and cultural renewal initiatives.
• Proven executive leadership in managing financial sustainability and organisational performance in a complex regulated environment.
• Proven capability in managing and leading diverse multi-disciplinary teams.
• Exceptional political acumen, stakeholder engagement and relationship building skills.
• Strong analytical capability with a demonstrated commitment to ethical governance.

Be rewarded

An attractive salary is offered based on the experience and qualifications you bring to the role.

Other Council benefits:

• Extra leave between the Christmas and New Year period (additional to your annual leave)
• Flexible work arrangements
• Outstanding team environment
• Ongoing opportunities for professional development
• Access to Long Service Leave after 5 years rather than 10

How to apply

Thank you for your interest in working with Dungog Shire Council.

You can apply now using our simple online application form. You are able to start an application and complete it at a time that suits you by selecting the Save For Later button.

To submit your application, please follow the below steps:

1. Fill out the required personal details and online questions below
2. Attach the requested documents (e.g. resume, cover letter, qualifications, licences)
3. Review your application and select Confirm

What happens next?

You will receive an automated acknowledgement email once you have submitted your application. We will be in touch once we have reviewed your application. Please note that Council reserves the right to review applications before the close date, so we recommend you apply as soon as possible if you are interested in this position.

Please be aware that Council is required to complete pre-employment checks on recommended candidates prior to an offer of employment. These may include: reference checks, a pre-employment medical assessment, a criminal history check and/or a psychometric assessment.

For further information, please contact: Gareth Curtis, General Manager on 04•• ••• 675

Applications close: Monday 8 June 2026 AEST 11:59 PM