Director Hunter Joint Organisation (Executive Officer)

About the job

• Be part of a collaborative and dynamic organisation committed to growth and innovation
• Job Satisfaction - contribute to shaping the region’s future for our communities 
• Engage with local councils on key regional priorities
• Attractive remuneration package 
• Flexible working arrangements negotiable
• Regional location based in the Hunter – great work/life balance and lifestyle

Do you want to make a difference for the Hunter region?

The Hunter Joint Organisation (Hunter JO) has a genuine commitment and mission to act as the hub for local intergovernmental collaboration and strengthen communities by being the local voice on strategic issues in the region. This commitment provides an opportunity for a senior executive to gain a strong sense of purpose, work for a growing organisation and contribute to our regional community through delivering real outcomes which meet community expectations. 

As the Director Hunter JO, you will lead a team of employees to deliver the organisations priorities and play an active role in delivering effective regional advocacy and program work through implementation of the Strategic Plan 2032 and relevant frameworks and strategies. 

Collaboration, engagement and advocacy is key to this role where you will work closely with the Hunter JO Board, General Managers Advisory Committee and all levels of government to achieve the organisations objectives. Regular reporting on performance, achievements and challenges will be required along with monitoring financial resources and risks, threats and opportunities communicated to the Board. 

For a copy of the Position Description or the Hunter JO Strategic Plan 2032, please email Lisa Exton at *****@arrowco.com.au. 

About You

Collaboration is key to our success. It allows us to create innovative solutions, efficient processes, improved culture, and is a defining strength for our organisation. Engaging with councils and a wide range of government, industry and community partners on key regional priorities is a key function in determining the focus and activities of the Hunter JO. 

There has been an increased focus on the importance of place-based leadership and the collaborative power of local government since the Hunter JO was formed in 2018. Collaboration between local councils in the Hunter has a rich and dynamic history, dating back to the 1950s, and this position presents an incredible opportunity to become a part of this historic collective impact.

It is an exciting time to get involved in the local government and public sector with many changes and opportunities facing the region. Along with relevant qualifications, the successful applicant will have:   

• Demonstrated knowledge of the financial, economic, environmental and social regional issues and drivers facing member councils, governments, agencies and communities. 
• Proven leadership and management experience within the public, private or not-for-profit sectors.
• Proven experience and expertise working in complex political environments with multiple stakeholders and often conflicting and overlapping priorities.

About the Hunter Joint Organisation

The Hunter Joint Organisation (Hunter JO) is a collaborative organisation of the 10 Councils of the Hunter, that facilitates the delivery of strategic advocacy and program outcomes for the entire region. Our principal functions include:

• Regional strategic planning and priority setting 
• Intergovernmental collaboration 
• Shared regional leadership and advocacy 

Being a hub for local government collaboration, the Hunter JO provides a united and local voice for communities throughout the Hunter region. The Hunter JO is a growing organisation, with an exciting and diverse range of projects that are delivering real outcomes for our region.

Projects across our core delivery themes, Connectivity, Resilience, Jobs and a Growing Economy and Liveability, are delivered by our Regional Policy and Programs Division (RPPD). Our current initiatives encompass many areas including regional planning and events, waste and resource recovery, environmental and community resilience, and economic development and diversification.  

How to Apply

Please email your application directly to Lisa Exton at *****@arrowco.com.au.

All applications require an updated CV and a cover letter with answers to the following questions:

1. Please outline your relevant tertiary qualifications or equivalent in a business, economics, marketing/tourism discipline / or an alternative qualification with extensive relevant work experience.
2. Please outline your demonstrated leadership and management experience within the public, private or not-for-profit sectors. 
3. Please outline both your relevant experience and approach to collaborating and building relationships working in a complex political environment with multiple stakeholders with conflicting and overlapping priorities. 

The closing date for applications is midnight, Sunday 12 May 2024.

If you have specific questions related to the role, please contact Cr Sue Moore, Mayor Singleton Council & Hunter Joint Organisation Chairperson on (02) 6578 7***.

We are an equal opportunity employer - we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities. Our aim is to provide all staff with an inclusive, safe, and healthy working environment, and we encourage applications from all members of the community.

We wish to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work and recognise their continuing connection and contribution. We pay respect to Elders past, present and future.