General Manager, Business, Economy and Activation, City of Melbourne

2 weeks ago

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Fish Nankivell Full time $180,000 - $250,000 per year

Before applying, please contact Andrew Abbott to obtain further information about the role.

  • Shape the city's economic and business future
  • Lead major initiatives across activation and place
  • Partner with leaders across government and industry

About the City of Melbourne

The City of Melbourne is the business, administrative, cultural and recreational hub of Victoria. We proudly govern Melbourne's city centre and a number of surrounding neighbourhoods, working closely with residents, businesses, visitors, government and community groups to ensure Melbourne remains one of the world's most liveable cities.

The Business, Economy and Activation (BEA) division drives Melbourne's economic strategy, business development, investment attraction and city activation agenda. Our aim is to support a resilient, innovative and inclusive economy that creates opportunities for all. Through major programs, partnerships and events, BEA helps position Melbourne as a destination for business, investment and global talent while ensuring the city is vibrant and welcoming for workers, residents and visitors.

The Role

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the General Manager, Business, Economy and Activation provides strategic leadership for the City of Melbourne's economic development and activation portfolio.

You will lead a talented team responsible for economic growth initiatives, business support programs, investment attraction, precinct activation and partnerships with key stakeholders across government, business and community. This role will oversee major projects and programs designed to enhance Melbourne's reputation as a premier destination for commerce, events, culture and innovation.

As a member of the City of Melbourne's leadership group, you will contribute to corporate strategy, foster a high-performance and collaborative culture, and champion outcomes that deliver for Melbourne's diverse communities.

Who We're Looking For

You are an experienced executive with a strong track record in economic development, business engagement, or city activation at scale. You have led complex portfolios and multidisciplinary teams, bringing together stakeholders across government, industry and community to deliver transformative outcomes.

Your leadership style is collaborative, strategic and outcome focused. You excel at balancing long-term planning with immediate delivery and thrive in a complex environment with competing priorities. You have the ability to influence at senior levels, develop partnerships that create measurable impact, and ensure programs are financially sustainable and evidence-based.

We are seeking a leader who is committed to Melbourne's future – a creative thinker who understands the interplay between business vitality, cultural activation and community wellbeing. You will bring insight, innovation and passion to shaping a city that is economically strong, globally competitive and inclusive for all.

How to apply

Fish Nankivell is managing the recruitment process for this critical leadership role. To receive a candidate brief, or to arrange a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Andrew Abbott, Partner at Fish Nankivell, on or

The closing date for applications is
Thursday
23 October 2025
. A concurrent search is being conducted.

To apply, please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, and the contact details of three referees to

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