Manager Governance and Council Services

• Executive Leadership Opportunity | Competitive Executive Remuneration Package 
• Full-time | Fixed-term (5-year Contract) 
• Total Remuneration Package circa $220,000 per annum, with vehicle and salary packaging options

Lead with integrity.  Be frank and fearless.  Shape the future of one of Western Australia's fastest-growing cities.

The City of Wanneroo is entering an exciting period of transformation.

As one of Australia's fastest-growing local governments, we are focused on building an organisation that is contemporary, high performing and community centred. Good governance sits at the heart of that ambition.

We are seeking an exceptional governance leader to join our leadership team as Manager Governance and Council Services.

Reporting directly to the Director Enablement, this is a highly influential leadership role responsible for providing strategic governance advice and leadership across the organisation. 

You will work closely with the CEO, Executive Leadership Team, Mayor and Elected Members to ensure robust governance, sound decision-making and legislative excellence underpin everything we do.

This is more than a governance role. It is an opportunity to shape organisational culture, strengthen governance capability and build the frameworks that enable confident leadership and exceptional public value.

The Opportunity
Leading a multidisciplinary service unit, you will be responsible for the City's governance framework, Council and committee services, executive support, Office of the Mayor and civic events.

You will provide strategic oversight of governance, integrity and compliance while fostering trusted relationships across the organisation and with key external stakeholders.

Your leadership will influence how Council decisions are made, how legislative reform is implemented and how governance evolves to support a modern, agile and future-focused local government.

Success in this role will require sound judgement, political acumen, exceptional communication skills and the ability to balance strategic thinking with operational excellence.

About You
You are an accomplished senior leader with significant experience leading governance, compliance, legal or public administration functions within a complex organisation.

You are recognised for your integrity, credibility and ability to build trusted relationships with executive leaders, governing bodies and diverse stakeholders.

You bring a contemporary view of governance where seeing it not simply compliance, but as an enabler of organisational performance, transparency and public confidence.

You will also demonstrate:

• Proven executive leadership experience in governance, law, public administration or a related discipline.
• Exceptional ability to influence, negotiate and provide trusted strategic advice.
• Experience leading organisational improvement and governance reform.
• Strong commercial and political judgement with the confidence to navigate complex and sensitive matters.
• A collaborative leadership style that develops people, builds capability and fosters accountability.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with the ability to distil complex issues into clear, practical advice.

Experience within Western Australian Local Government will be highly regarded; however, we welcome applications from accomplished governance leaders across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors who are passionate about making a meaningful contribution to public service.

Why Join Us?
The City of Wanneroo offers the opportunity to make a genuine and lasting impact within one of Western Australia's largest and fastest-growing local governments.

This is a role where your leadership will shape governance practices, strengthen organisational capability and support the delivery of better outcomes for a rapidly growing community.

In return, you will join an organisation committed to innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement, where executive leaders are empowered to think strategically, challenge the status quo and influence the City's future direction.

If you are inspired by purpose-driven leadership and believe great governance creates great organisations, we encourage you to apply.

To Apply
Please provide a resume highlighting relevant skills and experience and a cover letter (maximum three pages) addressing the following:

1. What governance leadership achievements best demonstrate your ability to lead a contemporary governance function and strengthen organisational performance? 
2. Describe a time you provided trusted advice to senior executives, a Board or elected governing body on a complex or politically sensitive issue. What was your approach and what was the outcome? 
3. Why are you the right person to lead Governance and Council Services at the City of Wanneroo, and what value would you bring to our Executive Leadership Team?

Why work for the City of Wanneroo?

Leave Benefits
• 5 weeks annual leave 
• 12 weeks paid parental leave

Stability with Mobility 
• Long Service Leave is portable across WA local governments
• Personal leave may be recognised if you move to another LGA
• Long term role with strong internal mobility, and sector-wide credibility
• A comprehensive development program with internal capability frameworks and access to funded external courses, workshops, and study leave

Perks & Support 
• Up to 15% superannuation with matching
• Free on-site parking
• Thoughtfully designed workspaces with sit-stand desks, natural light, and spots to collaborate.
• Modern end-of-trip facilities including showers, lockers, and secure bike storage
• Access to salary packaging and novated leasing
• Discounted memberships to our award-winning gym and leisure centres
• An active social club with regular events

Reference Number: 854920

Close Date: Tuesday 8th September 2026

For further information regarding the position visit the City of Wanneroo website or contact Emma Woolaston, Director Corporate Strategy & Performance on 9405 5055.

Please note:
• Applicants may be required to undergo a drug and alcohol test.
• All employees and prospective employees of the City of Wanneroo are required to declare any secondary employment and private activities to ensure that any conflict of interests may be appropriately managed.
• To apply for this position, you must have the right to work in Australia and be willing to provide a National Police Clearance no older than 3 months.

Attachments:
- Position Description - Manager Governance and Council Services - August 2026.pdf