Manager of Community and Economic Development

Job Summary

Lead a broad portfolio encompassing community services, economic development, grants, events, libraries, visitor information, recreation and sport.

Our Client

Berri Barmera Council serves a vibrant Riverland community on the banks of the Murray River in South Australia. Renowned for its stunning river landscapes, thriving agricultural industry and welcoming community spirit, the region offers an exceptional lifestyle with opportunities to live, work, play and invest.

Council plays a key role in supporting sustainable growth, community wellbeing and the delivery of essential local services across the district. With a strong focus on innovation and long-term planning, Berri Barmera Council is committed to creating a prosperous future for the region and its residents.

The Role

• Report to the General Manager Community and Corporate Services and contribute as a key member of Council's leadership team.
• Lead a diverse portfolio spanning community services, libraries, visitor information, economic development, grants, events, recreation and sport.
• Manage and develop a team of six professionals delivering services and initiatives across the community.
• Drive strategic initiatives that support community wellbeing, economic growth and regional development.
• Build strong relationships with elected members, community groups, businesses, government agencies and industry stakeholders.
• Help shape the future of the Riverland through advocacy, partnerships and sustainable growth opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of Council's community and economic development strategies.
• Drive initiatives that support investment attraction, business growth, housing development and employment opportunities.
• Provide strategic oversight of community services, libraries and visitor information services.
• Identify and secure grant and funding opportunities aligned with Council priorities.
• Lead Council's events, festivals and place activation programs.
• Foster partnerships with businesses, industry groups, community organisations and government agencies.
• Support recreation, sport and active living initiatives across the region.
• Provide high-level strategic advice to Council, senior leaders and elected members.
• Promote the region as a place to live, work, visit and invest.

About You

• Tertiary qualifications in community development, economics, regional development or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated senior leadership experience within local government, regional development or a community-focused organisation.
• Strong experience in community services delivery and economic development.
• Proven success securing grants, managing funding programs and delivering strategic outcomes.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to provide high-level advice and influence outcomes within a politically sensitive environment.
• Experience in local government, libraries, visitor services, events, recreation or tourism will be highly regarded.

In Return

• Executive Contract opportunity with a competitive remuneration package.
• A senior leadership role with broad organisational influence and six direct reports.
• The opportunity to lead a diverse portfolio spanning community services, economic development, grants, events, tourism, recreation and sport.
• A chance to shape the future growth, liveability and prosperity of the Riverland region.
• The opportunity to work closely with Council's Executive Leadership Team, Elected Members and key community stakeholders.
• An outstanding regional lifestyle on the banks of the Murray River, with easy access to Adelaide and Mildura.
• A supportive and collaborative workplace committed to delivering positive outcomes for its community.

Next Steps

To apply for this role, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button and include your CV and Cover Letter addressing the Essential Experience and Qualifications. Applications close Thursday 24^th September 2026.

For a confidential conversation, please contact Matt Hobby at Perks People Solutions on (08) 8273 9385.