Chief Executive Officer

Located at the northern end of the Yorke Peninsula, Barunga West Council encompasses some of South Australia's most picturesque coastline and historic inland townships. Just two hours from Adelaide, the region is home to the key townships of Port Broughton, Bute and Fisherman Bay. With beautiful beaches, a relaxed lifestyle and a welcoming community, Barunga West offers an enviable regional lifestyle with easy access to metropolitan amenities. The Council is committed to driving positive social, economic and environmental outcomes that support its growing communities and thriving local industries. About the role The Barunga West Council Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight to ensure Council's vision, policies and decisions are effectively delivered. Working in partnership with the Mayor, Elected Members and Senior Management Team, the CEO will lead the organisation to achieve its strategic and business plans, ensuring services, infrastructure and community initiatives are delivered efficiently, sustainably and to a high standard. The role is central to driving organisational performance, fostering a positive and high‑achieving culture, and building strong relationships with the Council, staff, community and stakeholders to deliver lasting benefits for the region. What you will do Lead, inspire and develop the organisation to deliver Council's strategic and operational objectives. Drive the development, review and delivery of Council's long‑term strategic and financial plans. Ensure the efficient and sustainable management of Council's financial, human and physical resources. Oversee major projects, operations, and service delivery to achieve high‑quality, cost‑effective outcomes for the community. Provide accurate, timely advice and reports to Council to support informed decision‑making. Foster a positive and productive culture that values professionalism, collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement. Build and maintain strong relationships with the Mayor, Elected Members, staff, community, government agencies, businesses and media. Promote Council and its activities to the broader community and actively represent the organisation at key forums and events. Ensure governance, risk and statutory obligations are consistently met, with robust systems, policies and controls in place. Champion customer service excellence and lead community engagement initiatives that strengthen trust and satisfaction. What they are looking for Extensive executive leadership experience in a complex, multi‑functional service organisation. Demonstrated success in leading strategy, people, finances, assets and major projects. Strong understanding of local government operations, legislation, governance and compliance frameworks. Proven ability to build positive relationships with external stakeholders, government agencies, the community and media. Highly developed leadership, interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build high‑performing teams. Excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation, public speaking and presentation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences. High levels of strategic, political and commercial acumen, combined with sound analytical and problem‑solving abilities. Strong emotional intelligence, with the ability to build trust, manage complex relationships and lead with empathy and resilience. Exceptional people management skills, with the ability to nurture, support and develop the workforce. Sound understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing regional communities, with a commitment to driving positive outcomes for the community. Tertiary and/or postgraduate qualifications in a relevant discipline (highly regarded). Living and working in the Barunga West Council region offers the best of both worlds - a relaxed coastal lifestyle and a thriving regional economy, all just two hours from Adelaide. The area is renowned for its strong community spirit, stunning natural environment, and affordable, family‑friendly lifestyle. If you are a strategic, collaborative, hands‑on leader committed to strengthening regional communities, we encourage you to apply. To obtain a copy of the Candidate Information Pack and to apply, please visit mcarthur.com.au and quote reference number J8295 . Applications close 9am Monday 15th December 2025. Confidential enquiries can be directed to Rebecca Hunt on . #J-18808-Ljbffr