Service Manager Workplace Relations

Permanent Full Time hours per week

RCC Officers' Level 8 + vehicle allowance

Redland City Council offers you the chance to improve lives and shape your own career… in a truly special place.

Join our team as Service Manager Workplace Relations

Are you an experienced industrial relations leader with the vision to shape workplace governance and the skills to influence at the highest level? We're seeking a strategic and technically expert professional to lead the delivery of Redland City Council's industrial and employment relations services. In this critical role, you'll provide high-level advice to senior leaders, manage enterprise bargaining processes, foster strong union and stakeholder relationships, and ensure our workplace practices align with state and federal legislation.

Your leadership will guide a multidisciplinary team to deliver outcomes that strengthen our organisation's culture, compliance, and capability.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead and manage the Workplace Relations Unit, delivering expert advice and governance across the employment lifecycle.
• Provide strategic leadership in all industrial and employee relations matters, including enterprise bargaining and dispute resolution.
• Act as Council's principal liaison with unions, elected officials, auditors, and other external workplace governance stakeholders.
• Ensure legislative and Award/EBA compliance across all People and Culture policies, procedures, and practices.
• Represent Council in complex industrial relations advocacy before tribunals and other external bodies.
• Lead projects in diversity, inclusion, workplace governance, and legislative compliance.
• Deliver timely and accurate management reporting to inform executive decision-making.

Skills & Experience:

• Extensive experience in senior employee and industrial relations leadership roles within a medium to large organisation.
• Expert technical knowledge of relevant state and federal legislation, Awards, and enterprise agreements.
• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams in complex legislative environments.
• Strong negotiation, influencing, and relationship-building skills with internal and external stakeholders.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the preparation of high-level reports and briefings.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Law, Business (with IR/ER/Governance focus) or related field.

Please read the full Position Description before applying – it outlines everything you need to tailor your resume and cover letter.

More reasons to love working with us:

• 17.5% annual leave loading + Christmas ex-gratia day
• Paid parental leave and purchased leave options
• Access to development and study assistance programs
• Discounts with 400+ retailers and fitness providers
• Flexible working options through RedFlex – our flexible work program offering flexibility in how, when and where you work.

Who We Are:

Redland City Council is a local government organisation proudly serving the Redlands Coast community. From maintaining roads, parks, waterways and islands, to delivering essential services like waste, water, libraries and community events—we support the city's day-to-day life and long-term growth. With over 1,000 employees across diverse teams, we're committed to shaping a thriving, sustainable region that our community is proud of.

Guided by our Values, we're proud of the work we do and the people who make it possible. Visit our careers page to learn more and read the stories of our incredible team.

Eligibility:

• You'll hold a tertiary qualification in a relevant field such as Law, Business (IR/ER/Governance) or a related discipline or extensive experience in a senior technical role.
• Appointment is subject to a satisfactory Criminal History check and possession of a C Class Driver's Licence.

Ready to join us?

Click Apply to submit your application via Council's online portal (or through OURspace for current employees).

Please include:

• A one-page cover letter
• A current resume outlining how you meet the role requirements

Note: We do not accept email, hard copy or third-party applications.

Applications close at 11:59pm AEST on 24 August 2025.

At Redland City Council, we're committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to contribute to their full potential. We value the unique perspectives and experiences our people bring to serving our community.