Manager Governance

• Lead governance, risk and integrity across Council
• Partner with decision makers and influence outcomes
• Drive transparency, compliance and organisational improvement

About Adelaide Hills Council…

Adelaide Hills Council is a dynamic and community focused Council committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Nestled within one of South Australia's most unique and picturesque regions, Council delivers a broad range of services while fostering strong community connections and sustainable growth.

Guided by values of trust, connection, excellence and innovation, Adelaide Hills Council is committed to responsive service, sound leadership and delivering outcomes that support its communities to thrive.

About the role…

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the Manager Governance is a critical leadership role responsible for strengthening Council's governance, risk and integrity frameworks while supporting transparent, accountable and effective decision making.

Operating with a high degree of autonomy, this role provides strategic advice, direction and oversight across governance, compliance and risk functions, ensuring Council meets its legislative obligations while continuing to build organisational capability.

This is a diverse and influential role requiring a politically astute and trusted leader who can operate confidently across both strategic and operational environments. Working closely with the CEO, Elected Members and Executive Leadership Team, you will provide trusted advice, navigate complexity and foster strong relationships to support effective governance outcomes across Council.

What you will do…

• Governance Leadership - Lead and strengthen Council's governance, risk and compliance functions while fostering a collaborative, high performing and customer focused culture.
• Strategic Advice - Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO, Council Members and Executive Leadership Team on governance, integrity and legislative matters.
• Council and Committees - Oversee Council and Committee processes to ensure transparent, compliant and effective decision making.
• Governance and Compliance Frameworks - Develop, maintain and continuously improve governance systems, policies, delegations and compliance frameworks.
• Risk and Resilience - Lead the ongoing development of Council's corporate risk framework, business continuity planning and organisational resilience initiatives.
• Integrity and Statutory Functions - Oversee complaints, internal reviews, public interest disclosures and related integrity and regulatory processes.
• Audit and Assurance - Support and oversee audit and assurance activities, ensuring findings are addressed and improvements embedded.
• Insurance and Legislative Oversight - Manage Council's insurance portfolio while monitoring legislative and regulatory changes to ensure Council remains compliant and informed.
• Stakeholder Engagement - Build trusted relationships with Council Members, Executive, leaders, regulators and external stakeholders to support sound governance outcomes.
• Continuous Improvement - Promote contemporary governance practices and build organisational capability through education, support and improvement initiatives.

What they are looking for…

• Tertiary qualifications in Law, Governance, Public Administration, Risk Management or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• Significant experience in governance, risk and compliance within a complex organisation, ideally within local government or a similar environment.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation and demonstrated ability to interpret and apply legislative and regulatory requirements.
• Experience developing and improving governance frameworks, policies, systems and organisational practices.
• Demonstrated experience in risk management, audit, compliance and governance reporting.
• Highly developed communication and relationship building capability with the ability to influence and provide trusted advice at executive and Council level.
• Political awareness, sound judgement and the ability to manage sensitive and complex matters with professionalism and discretion.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to build capability, develop teams and foster a positive and accountable culture.
• Strong planning, prioritisation and organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver outcomes.
• A collaborative and pragmatic leadership style committed to continuous improvement and public sector excellence.

Why Adelaide Hills Council?

• Make an Impact - Play a key role supporting good governance, organisational integrity and community confidence.
• Diverse and Meaningful Work - Lead governance, risk and integrity functions that shape organisational performance and accountability.
• Leadership Opportunity - Partner closely with the CEO, Executive and Elected Members on matters of significance and influence.
• Community and Lifestyle - Join a values led organisation located in one of South Australia's most unique and connected regions.

This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role within Adelaide Hills Council and contribute to strong governance, accountability and organisational performance. If you are looking to contribute your governance expertise in a practical and meaningful way, we welcome your application.

To obtain a copy of the Candidate Information Pack and to apply, please visit mcarthur.com.au and quote reference number J9488.

Confidential enquiries can be directed to Rebecca Hunt on 08 8100 7000.

We are actively shortlisting candidates and encourage early applications.