Vacancy Details

Head of Governance 

  • Lead governance, integrity and decision-making support across a dynamic inner-city council
  • Full-time permanent position with flexible working arrangements
  • Located at St Kilda Town Hall or with flexible working arrangements possible.

About the Organisation 

The City of Port Phillip is an inner-city council with around 1000 employees who deliver more than 100 programs and services to our residents, businesses and visitors. These range from childcare and immunisations, to libraries, management of parks and open space, rubbish collection, road maintenance and more. City of Port Phillip has zero tolerance for child abuse and is a committed Child Safe organisation. 

About the Role

This is an opportunity to lead governance at one of Melbourne's most dynamic inner-city councils, working at the centre of Council decision-making and organisational leadership.

As Head of Governance, you will provide expert strategic advice to the Executive Leadership Team, Mayor and Councillors on governance, integrity, legislative compliance and statutory obligations. You will oversee Governance, Mayor and Councillor Services, privacy and freedom of information, while driving continuous improvement across Council's governance framework.

Leading a high-performing team, you will play a critical role in strengthening transparency, accountability and public trust, ensuring Council operates effectively, meets its legislative obligations and delivers high-quality outcomes for the community.

Duties

  • Lead the delivery of Council, Committee and Governance Services.
  • Provide expert advice on governance, legislation and statutory obligations.
  • Build and strengthen governance frameworks, policies and systems.
  • Partner with Councillors and executives on complex governance matters.
  • Lead a high-performing team focused on service excellence and compliance.

Skills and Experience 

  • Demonstrated senior leadership experience in governance, democratic services or public administration.
  • Extensive knowledge of local government legislation and governance frameworks.
  • Proven ability to provide strategic advice on complex governance matters.
  • Strong stakeholder management skills with executive and elected representatives.
  • Relevant tertiary qualifications in law, governance, public policy, business or a related discipline.

Culture 

People enjoy working at the City of Port Phillip because we are a welcoming, healthy and inclusive workplace.  We offer a vibrant and diverse work environment where our employees can develop both professionally and personally whilst planning and delivering a range of important services and programs to the community. 

Benefits

  • We offer a workplace that accommodates your working style and needs. 
  • Be supported and empowered by a leadership team that is community-focused, with a strong desire for change and a culture that encourages teamwork and innovation.
  • Training and development opportunities, study assistance, flexible working conditions, paid parental leave, an active social club, a health and wellbeing program with access to fitness gyms, pools and facilities, and a well-regarded Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Security Requirements and Professional Obligations   

Pre-employment screening will apply to all appointments.  

Prior to a formal letter of offer, preferred applicants will be asked to provide:

  • Evidence of mandatory qualifications/registrations/licences,
  • Sufficient proof of their right to work in Australia, and                                                       
  • Sufficient proof of their identity. 
  • Complete a National Police Check completed via City of Port Phillip’s Provider.
  • Evidence of a Working with Children Check (employee type with City of Port Phillip registered as the organisation).  

How to Apply

Click APPLY.

All applicants must provide a Resume and  Cover Letter in response to the key selection criteria located on the last page of the position description. The Cover Letter should be no longer than 2 pages and include each heading in the Key Selection Criteria.

Note: Only applications submitted via the online Recruitment Portal will be considered and only shortlisted candidates will be provided feedback.

Further information can be obtained by contacting James Gullan, Manager Communications and Governance, via phone 0422 060 667 or via  james.gullan@portphillip.vic.gov.au

Applications close 11.59pm  Sunday 26 July.

The City of Port Phillip is an equal opportunity employer, committed to an inclusive and accessible environment where diversity is valued. We actively welcome and encourage candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, First Nation and Torres Strait Islander candidates, members of the LGBTQIA+ community and candidates with a disability.