Branch Manager Strategy & Innovation

Who we are looking for

We have an ongoing full time position for a Branch Manager Strategy and Innovation, based in Warrnambool.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape how Wannon Water sets priorities, measures progress and delivers on its strategy. We're seeking an influential, people-focused leader who can build trusted relationships across the organisation, establish contemporary approaches to strategy delivery and performance monitoring, and create clarity around what matters most. You'll engage people across the organisation in this work, strengthening collaboration, encouraging innovation and contributing to a culture where people and ideas can thrive. 

This position comes with a generous total remuneration package starting from $185,000 (inclusive of superannuation), dependent on skills and experience.

What you'll be doing

On a day-to-day basis, you'll:

• Lead, motivate and develop the Strategy and Innovation team, fostering a values-driven culture focussed on collaboration, continuous improvement and organisational impact. 
• Foster organisation-wide collaboration and strategic alignment, contributing to senior leadership and ensuring resources and efforts are focused on our highest priorities.
• Drive the development, alignment and delivery of our corporate strategy, providing strategic advice and ensuring priorities are effectively translated into plans, actions and organisational outcomes
• Oversee organisation-wide performance measurement and reporting, providing insights that support evidence-based decision-making, strategic alignment and continuous improvement.
• Lead our research, development and innovation agenda, fostering collaboration, experimentation and organisational learning to drive strategic outcomes and continuous improvement

What you’ll bring 

We’re looking for someone with 

• Tertiary qualifications in business, public policy, economics, governance, business analytics, evaluation, performance, innovation, management or a related discipline, or extensive experience in a similar role. Post graduate qualifications in a management or relevant specialist discipline will be well regarded.
• Appropriate experience in strategy, performance, corporate planning, reporting, research, development, innovation or related functions is required.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and the ability to guide, support and develop a high-performing team.
• Pragmatic communicator with high professional integrity, strong organisational skills, and the credibility to influence in a collaborative and inclusive manner.
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach with sound judgement and the ability to manage priorties.

For further details, see the position description available here.

We look forward to hearing from you. if you have any questions, feel free to call Kellie King (Executive Strategy, Partnerships and Performance) on 0414 335 004.

What we can offer

Putting people first comes naturally to us, and that includes the people we employ. You’ll have every opportunity to make the most of your talents, broaden your experiences and be rewarded for the great work you do. 

You'll be offered a range of great benefits including:

• Workplace flexibility with access to working arrangements such as hybrid work, flexible hours, purchased leave, monthly rostered days off and more. 
• An inclusive workplace culture, which embraces diversity and the benefits it brings to the workplace and life.
• A leadership commitment to Zero Harm where the safety and wellbeing of our people and others is paramount.
• A Health & Wellbeing program, to support your physical, mental and financial wellbeing, including our Employee Assistance Program for our people and their immediate families.
• Extensive learning and development opportunities and access to professional development through associations such as CPA, IWC, WSAA, VicWater, and more.

We're an equal opportunity employer. Our commitment to creating and supporting an inclusive culture is reflected in our diverse mix of talented people who are passionate about delivering their best.

We welcome applications from everyone including people with a disability, job seekers of all ages, carers, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, members of the LGBTI+ community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

We are 

• A certified Family Inclusive Workplace
• A Work 180 endorsed employer
• Members of the Diversity Council Australia

Ready to find out about our employee benefits? Visit Our Careers page and discover more about us.

How you can apply 

Applications close: 11:59pm Sunday 30 August 2026  

Click APPLY and you will be taken through to the Wannon Water Careers Portal to complete your application. Once there, you will be prompted to answer a few simple questions and upload your cover letter and resume.  

As part of your cover letter, please outline how your skills and experience meet the role requirements (as outlined in the position description).  

Reasonable Adjustments

We're here to support you through life's ups and downs. Whether you need adjustments during the recruitment process or at work, like flexible hours or accommodation for disabilities, we're here to help. We understand it can be daunting to share your needs, so feel free to reach out with any questions at peopleandwellbeing@wannonwater.com.au. Your information will be kept completely confidential.