Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

Manager, Office of the General Manager

About the Opportunity

At PMHC every employee plays a part in ensuring we
work together to achieve positive outcomes for our community. To help us
achieve this we are seeking an experienced and highly capable leader
to manage the Office of the General Manager and provide strategic, operational
and confidential support to the General Manager and Executive Leadership Team.

This is a unique
opportunity to work at the heart of one of regional Australia's fastest growing
councils, supporting executive decision-making, helping to drive organisational
priorities, and managing relationships across government, industry and the
community.

Reporting
directly to the General Manager, the Manager Office of the General Manager is a
trusted problem solver and coordinator who ensures the seamless operation of
the executive office while providing support to leadership across a diverse
portfolio of governance, stakeholder engagement and organisational support
functions.

What you'll be responsible for

You will lead the
day-to-day operation of the General Manager's Office while playing a critical
role in supporting the organisation's strategic and operational objectives.

Key areas of
responsibility include:

• Providing high-level
  strategic and operational advice to the General Manager.
• Researching, analysing
  and coordinating responses to complex and emerging issues.
• Preparing executive
  briefings, reports, correspondence and presentations for senior leaders and
  elected representatives.
• Managing sensitive and
  confidential matters requiring sound judgement and discretion.
• Coordinating
  stakeholder relationships across government agencies, elected representatives,
  industry, businesses and community organisations.
• Driving continuous
  improvement initiatives across executive support and business administration
  functions.
• Leading and developing
  a small, high-performing team that supports the General Manager, Mayor and
  Councillors.

About you

You are an
experienced professional who thrives in complex environments and is comfortable
operating at both strategic and operational levels.

You are
politically astute, highly organised and able to build trusted relationships
with stakeholders at all levels. You can confidently manage competing
priorities, navigate sensitive issues and deliver quality outcomes under
pressure.

Most importantly,
you bring:

• Exceptional written and
  verbal communication skills.
• Strong stakeholder
  engagement and relationship management capabilities.
• Demonstrated leadership
  experience and the ability to influence outcomes.
• High levels of
  discretion, integrity and professionalism.
• The ability to
  anticipate issues, think critically and solve problems proactively.
• Experience supporting
  senior executives in politically sensitive environments.

Why this role is different

This is not a
traditional executive support position.

It is a
leadership role that provides direct exposure to executive decision-making,
strategic organisational priorities and high-profile stakeholder engagement.
The successful candidate will work closely with the General Manager, Mayor,
Councillors and Executive Leadership Team.

Remuneration and Benefits

Employment Type: Full time, Permanent 35 hours per
week

Salary (exclusive of super): Starting in the range of $101,015 to $113,067 depending on skills and experience

Opportunity for performance-based increase available after 12 months.

Benefits:

• Flexible
  work arrangements - hybrid working and flexi-time
• Discounted gym membership through
  membership to Fitness Passport
• Candidates relocating to the region have access to The
  Welcome Experience
• Opportunities for learning and development and internal career progression
• Annual salary increase as per the
  Local Government (State) Award 2026 plus annual salary review
• Long service leave after 5 years
• Generous employee assistance program
• Salary packaging options available
  through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
• Recognition through our annual awards
  ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

About the Port Macquarie Hastings Region

The region is one of Australia's most enviable
locations. We boast a stunning hinterland, kilometres of pristine beaches,
national parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities, restaurants, galleries,
theatres and a genuine community vibe. The Mid-North Coast is perfect for
hiking, surfing, camping, fishing, exploration, sports, arts, theatre, food and
wine.

Questions?

If you would like to know more about this
opportunity or have any questions about the role, please contact Erin Lord on (02) 6581 8020.

Interested in Applying?

Click 'Apply now' to create an account and complete the application form. You'll be asked to answer questions relating to the essential requirements found in the position description and upload a copy of your resume and cover letter.

Documents should be submitted in PDF format.

Applications Close:
Sunday 8 November at 11.30pm

At Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive.

We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at [email protected]. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Notes:

Suitable candidates may be placed on an eligibility list for future identical positions for 6 months or a talent pool for similar positions for a period of
12 months.

Please upload documents in PDF format.

Preferred applicants are required to complete
pre-employment checks. This may include: Reference Checks; National Criminal
Police Check; Medical Assessment (includes drug and alcohol testing); Qualification verification; Working with
Children Check verification.

PMHC's recruitment notification process is
primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct
before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes.
Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: application
received, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/more
information, delay notifications, testing/assessments
(aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes
(unsuccessful before or after interview).

Please regularly check your 'junk mail' or ensure
our email address [email protected] and Pulse email [email protected] is set to 'trustworthy'.

Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the
principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and
protection of all children and young people.