Councillor Advisor

Councillor Advisor
Requisition Number: 226
Salary Range: $143,901 - $154,361 per annum dependent on experience
Position Type: Fixed term contract – March 2028.
Location: Council Chamber, 119 – 145 Spence Street, Portsmith 
Application Close Date: Sunday, 21 July 2024 
Agency applications are not being accepted at this stage.

Join the team at Cairns Regional Council as a Councillor Advisor to the Mayor. 
These positions offer a unique opportunity to work alongside the Mayor working on real issues that result in better outcomes for the Cairns community, one of Australia's most vibrant regions.

The Opportunity
Elevate your career in local government with a prestigious role that helps to shape the future of Cairns. Cairns Regional Council is seeking two exceptional Councillor Advisors to support the Mayor in either policy and advocacy or strategic communication. These roles are pivotal in driving key initiatives, fostering community engagement, and ensuring the Mayor's office operates with unparalleled efficiency and impact. Flexible working arrangement, including full-time and part-time options are available to suit your lifestyle. 

The Role
As a Councillor Advisor, you will be an integral part of the Mayor's team, providing essential support and guidance on complex and sensitive policy, public administration, and political issues. 
You will be responsible for:

• Assisting the Mayor in fulfilling their responsibilities under the Local Government Act 2009.
• Delivering expert and timely advice on priority strategic issues.
• Liaising with state and commonwealth representatives, private sector entities, and the community on behalf of the Mayor.
• Analysing strategic proposals, conducting research, and offering informed advice.
• Managing the operations of the Mayor’s office, including correspondence workflows.
• Addressing community and stakeholder inquiries with professionalism and efficiency.
• Monitoring media trends, identifying potential issues, and creating media opportunities.
• Preparing media statements, articles, and speeches to ensure impactful communication.
• Building and maintaining effective relationships with key stakeholders to support the Mayor’s decision-making process.
• Coordinating and managing mayoral events and public appearances.

About You
We are seeking high-calibre professionals who thrive in a fast-paced, politically charged environment and possess the following:

• Highly developed interpersonal skills with the ability to quickly build rapport, gain the confidence and collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• High political awareness to effectively advance the Mayor’s objectives.
• Critical and strategic thinking abilities to identify risks.
• Expertise in simplifying and communicating complex information.
• Discretion, sound judgment, and the ability to handle sensitive issues confidentially.
• Excellent planning and coordination skills, with the ability to manage tight deadlines and competing priorities.
• Clear, consistent, and effective communication abilities.

About Mayor Eden 
Mayor Eden is a key representative of the Cairns Regional Council, known for her unwavering dedication to the community and her strategic vision for the region’s future. Mayor Eden’s leadership drives innovative policies and fostering robust community relationships. Joining her team as a Councillor Advisor means becoming part of a dynamic and forward-thinking group committed to excellence, ensuring positive relationship with key stakeholders and impactful community engagement.

If you are passionate about politics, policy, strategic communication, and are ready to contribute to the vibrant community of Cairns, we encourage you to express your interest today!

This is your chance to make a significant difference and help shape the future of Cairns.

Now we want to hear about YOU!
To apply for the position of Councillor Advisor, please use the 'Apply' button to submit your application. Ensure your submission comprises a detailed Cover Letter and a comprehensive CV highlighting your academic and professional background. Additionally, attach any relevant qualifications and licenses as requested. 
For a deeper understanding of the role, download the Position Description containing key duties, responsibilities, and selection criteria.

Contact Christine Posgate - Director People & Organisational Performance:

• Phone: (07) 4044 3***
• Email: *********@cairns.qld.gov.au 
• Website: Employment at Council | Cairns Regional Council