Manager Operations

• Lead Council's operational services across a diverse regional community
• Drive service delivery, safety and continuous improvement outcomes
• Senior leadership role overseeing field based teams and community assets

About Mid Murray Council…

Located just over an hour from Adelaide, Mid Murray Council covers a large, diverse region stretching from the Murray River to the Mount Lofty Ranges. With a population of approximately 10,000 and a strong sense of community, Council is focused on innovation, accountability and delivering quality services to their community.

Council is committed to continuous improvement, strong leadership and ensuring community requirements are met through effective and efficient service delivery frameworks, with a focus on investing in its people, systems and infrastructure to ensure strong outcomes for the future.

About the role…

Reporting to the Director Infrastructure & Field Services, the Manager Operations is responsible for leading Council's operational services and field based teams. The role oversees a broad portfolio including horticulture, civil infrastructure, community wastewater management systems, waste services, and asset and depot maintenance activities. As a member of the Infrastructure & Field Services leadership team, you will contribute to strategic planning, service delivery, workforce development and operational performance across the organisation.

This is a hands-on leadership opportunity for an experienced operational leader who enjoys balancing people leadership, service delivery, safety and continuous improvement.

What you will do…

• Lead Operational Teams - Provide leadership, direction and support to multidisciplinary operational teams delivering services across the Council area.
• Manage Service Delivery - Oversee work programs and operational activities, including contractual services, to ensure services are delivered efficiently and meet community requirements.
• Drive Continuous Improvement - Implement and improve operational frameworks, systems and processes that support effective service delivery.
• Lead and Develop People - Foster a positive team culture through coaching, workforce planning, succession planning and capability development.
• Manage Resources and Budgets - Oversee operational budgets, fleet and equipment resources to ensure efficient and sustainable service delivery.
• Promote Safety and Compliance - Lead a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with legislative, regulatory and Council requirements.
• Support Strategic Outcomes - Contribute to the strategic direction of Infrastructure and Field Services and support delivery of Council priorities.
• Monitor Performance and Reporting - Ensure accurate reporting, record keeping and performance monitoring across operational services.

What they are looking for…

• Proven leadership experience managing operational, public works, infrastructure or field based teams.
• Strong people leadership skills with the ability to build capability, accountability and team performance.
• Experience in managing operational budgets, resources, contractors and service delivery programs.
• Sound understanding of public infrastructure maintenance and operational service delivery.
• Knowledge of safety, risk management and compliance requirements in operational environments.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to work effectively across the organisation and community.
• Relevant qualifications in Public Works Management, Local Government, Business, Public Management or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• A practical, collaborative and outcomes focused leadership style.

Why Mid Murray Council?

• Diverse operational portfolio - Lead a broad range of essential community services and infrastructure activities.
• Leadership opportunity - Be part of a collaborative Infrastructure & Field Services leadership team and contribute to strategic decision making across the organisation.
• Regional Lifestyle - Enjoy the benefits of living and working in a connected regional community while contributing to outcomes that matter locally.
• Flexible work environment - Flexible working options available to support work-life balance and productivity, while meeting organisational needs.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced operational leader looking to make a genuine impact in a progressive regional Council.

More information…

To obtain a copy of the Candidate Information Pack and to apply, please visit mcarthur.com.au and quote reference number J9579 Applications close 9am Monday 20^th July 2026.

We welcome applications from those with diverse backgrounds including people with disability. We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments to ensure all employees are successful in their roles.

Confidential enquiries can be directed toRebecca Hunt on (08) 8100 7000.