The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley encompasses the towns of Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Camballin, and 54 Aboriginal Communities throughout the region. Living in Derby and Fitzroy Crossing offers a relaxed and vibrant lifestyle, with a wide range of leisure activities such as exceptional fishing, boating, sightseeing, community events, and sports. The locals are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making it easy to feel at home.
This region is also home to breathtaking and untouched wilderness areas, including the iconic Buccaneer Archipelago, Gibb River Road, Fitzroy River, and Geikie Gorge. If you’re eager to experience the beauty of the wet season and immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture, this is the perfect opportunity.
At the Shire, we value the unique backgrounds, experiences, and contributions that each person brings to our community. We encourage and celebrate diversity, welcoming applications from Aboriginal people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, women, individuals of all ages, people with disabilities, and culturally and linguistically diverse individuals. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.
Benefits of Working in the Shire:
Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to nature and outdoor activities, allowing for a fulfilling work-life balance.
Cultural Enrichment: Gain a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture by working closely with local communities and participating in cultural events.
Natural Beauty: Be surrounded by stunning landscapes and explore some of Australia's most pristine wilderness areas during your time off.
Community Spirit: Join a close-knit, welcoming community where you can form lasting friendships and feel a strong sense of belonging.
Personal Growth: Experience living and working in a unique environment that fosters both personal and professional development.
6 Weeks Annual Leave: Benefit from an extended leave package, giving you more time to relax and recharge.
Up to 7% Council-Matching Super Contributions: Boost your retirement savings with generous employer contributions.
Novated Leasing: Enjoy the convenience and tax advantages of novated leasing for your vehicle.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access professional support for your mental health and well-being.
Free Pool Entry: Enjoy free access to the local pool following your probation period, encouraging an active lifestyle.
If you're ready to embark on a rewarding adventure in one of Australia’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions, apply now!
Job Description
As a member of the executive team and leadership group, the Director Corporate Services plays a crucial role in driving strategic outcomes for the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley across a geographically diverse region. This role encompasses high-level leadership, governance, and operational management, ensuring the alignment of financial and corporate services with the Shire’s long-term vision.
The Director will lead the preparation and management of the Shire’s budgets, ensuring they align with strategic priorities and support long-term financial sustainability. They will be responsible for monitoring and controlling expenditure across all directorate programs and services, ensuring compliance with budgetary constraints and financial regulations. Overseeing finance, governance, IT, records management, and customer service, the role ensures legislative compliance while driving continuous improvement. In addition, the Director will lead a multidisciplinary team, foster strategic financial planning, manage risk, and collaborate with key stakeholders to enhance service delivery across the region. Providing financial training and guidance to staff and Councillors will also be a key aspect of the role, improving financial literacy and accountability across the organisation.
This position requires a strong understanding of governance and compliance, ensuring that all corporate activities adhere to legislative and regulatory requirements. The Director will oversee the implementation of a comprehensive risk management framework, proactively identifying and mitigating risks that could impact the organisation’s operations. They will also play a key role in developing and reviewing governance and compliance policies while providing expert advice to the CEO, Council, and executive leadership team.
Building and maintaining strong relationships with Councillors, community leaders, resource companies, and State and Federal Government agencies will be essential in advancing the Shire’s strategic objectives. The Director will represent the Shire in high-level forums, ensuring that the community’s needs and expectations
Please note that this position is based in Derby with a base salary range from $160,000 - $180,000 plus generous allowances (Subject to negotiation, up to $46,401), housing, superannuation (11.5% & up-to 7% Council matching), and 6 weeks annual leave. Join us in shaping the future of our community through executive leadership at the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley!
Desired Skills and Experience
Essential Skills & Experience
Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing comprehensive financial strategies that ensure organisational financial sustainability and to comply with the Local Government Act 1995 and Local Government Financial Management Regulations 1996.
Demonstrated experience in providing expert governance advice and support to executive leadership, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and informed decision-making.
Strong ability to build and maintain effective relationships with Councillors, community leaders, government agencies, and other key stakeholders.
Proven experience in establishing performance benchmarks and driving continuous improvement and innovation within an organisational directorate.
Demonstrated expertise in leading budget preparation and management, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and financial sustainability.
Ability to apply local government legislation from Local Government Act 1995 and other relevant Acts, Regulations and By-Laws.
High level verbal and written communication skills, including excellent negotiation, conflict resolution and problem-solving skills and the capability and experience in building and maintaining healthy and positive relationships.
Desirable but not Essential
CPA/CA or Business Management tertiary qualified.
Substantial senior management experience gained within Australian Local Government.
Post-Graduate management education commensurate with the role and responsibilities of the position.
Professional association affiliation.
Advanced project management skills
To apply, please submit:
A cover letter (maximum two pages),addressing the Selection Criteria as listed above.
A current resume.
Contact details for two relevant professional references.
Candidates will be reviewed upon submission of application.
Incomplete applications may not be considered
For further information or a copy of the Position Descriptions please reach out to our People and Culture Team recruitment@sdwk.wa.gov.au or (08) 9191 0999 .