Interim Program Leader - 2032 Games Coordination

Interim Program Leader - 2032 Games Coordination

Requisition Number: 1269

Salary Range: $122,578.71 - $139,958.54 pro-rata per annum

Position Type: Full Time Maximum Term until August 2027 with the possibility of extension

Location: Council Chambers, 119 – 145 Spence Street, Cairns

Application Close Date: Sunday, 13 September 2026 at 11.30pm AEST

This is a rare opportunity to play a key leadership role in one of the most significant and exciting projects in Cairns' history!

As a Co-Host City for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Cairns is embarking on an exciting journey that will shape the region's future. We are seeking an exceptional Interim Program Leader - 2032 Games Coordination to lead Council's strategic coordination and preparedness activities during this critical phase of planning and implementation.

Working across Council, government agencies and a diverse range of stakeholders, you will provide leadership, coordination and oversight of initiatives arising from the 2032 Games Roadmap for Cairns. Your work will help position Cairns to maximise the economic, social and community opportunities presented by the Games, while ensuring Council is well prepared to meet its responsibilities as a Co-Host City.

As the central point of coordination for Council's Games-related activities, you will drive effective governance, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, reporting and organisational readiness. You will build strong partnerships, establish robust frameworks and systems, and help guide Council's approach to delivering meaningful outcomes for the Cairns community.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a once-in-a-generation opportunity, helping to shape Cairns' future and create a legacy that will be felt long after the Games have concluded.

What We Are Looking For:

• Current Queensland Drivers Licence with the ability to independently drive between all Council and business locations to meet operational needs.

• Strategic Project Management: Proven experience driving strategic initiatives from development through to public launch and execution.

• Financial & Resource Modelling: Experience operationalising, updating, and maintaining (with input from finance and human resources representatives) financial and resource models to inform operations and corporate budget processes.

• Governance Framework Design: Demonstrated ability to establish, implement, and manage internal and external governance committees and reporting structures.

• High-Level Stakeholder Engagement: Exceptional communication skills with a track record of acting as a primary liaison with government agencies, external stakeholders, and consultants.

• Change and Transition Coordination: Ability to coordinate organisational change, specifically transitioning temporary resource models into long-term operational business units.

• Local Government Experience: Strong understanding of council budgetary cycles, political environments, and the strategic landscape of major events.

• Ability to Influence: Proven ability to communicate, negotiate and influence within an organisation at a senior level.

If you are an accomplished program leader with strong stakeholder engagement skills, a strategic mindset and a passion for delivering outcomes in complex environments, we would love to hear from you!

Some benefits we offer:

• Achieve work / life balance with flexible working arrangements

• Fitness Passport - subsidised health and well-being memberships (gym/swimming pool)

• Recharge with up to 5 weeks annual leave

• Up to 3 weeks personal leave

• Relocation assistance may be available for preferred candidates

• Salary sacrifice opportunities

• Grow personally and professionally with learning and development opportunities

• Cherish family time with up to 14 weeks paid parental leave

We are committed to:

• Fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment

• Embracing innovation and continuous improvement

• Cultivating a culture of professional growth and support

Now we want to hear about YOU!

Applications MUST be submitted online through the 'Apply' button and include a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria and Resume outlining previous academic and work experience and if requested include attachments of the relevant qualifications and licenses, relating to the role.

For further information about this role please download the Position Description which includes the Key Duties, Responsibilities and Selection Criteria.

Council’s Recruitment Team can be contacted via:

Phone: (07) •••• •310

Email: jobs@cairns.qld.gov.au

Website: Employment at Council | Cairns Regional Council