Governance and Risk Manager

Lead governance and risk functions at a forward-thinking regional council

• Attractive salary circa $118,000 – $131,000 PLUS 12% Super
• Relocation assistance up to $5,000
• Full-private use leaseback motor-vehicle
• Rostered Day-Off | 9-day fortnight (70 hours over 9 days)
• Long-term career progression opportunities
• Based in beautiful Boorowa, NSW – combine a rewarding career with a relaxed country lifestyle

Hilltops Council serves a thriving regional community in southern New South Wales, celebrated for its relaxed country lifestyle, pristine natural environment, and strong community spirit. The Council's vision is to see Hilltops become a vibrant and sustainable region that values its people, heritage, and future. Dedicated to delivering quality services, fostering economic growth, and ensuring good governance, Hilltops Council is guided by its core values of Safety, Trust, Accountability, and Respect in all decision-making and daily operations. The organisation is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace where professional development is encouraged, and individual contributions are recognised.

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Hilltops Council is seeking a Manager Governance & Risk to lead its governance, corporate risk, and compliance functions. Reporting to the Group Manager Corporate Services, you will oversee a small team and ensure the Council fulfils its legislative, regulatory, and strategic obligations. This position is based at the Boorowa Office (NSW), with flexibility to work from home on occasion.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Leading governance and risk frameworks, including the Enterprise Risk Management, Business Continuity, and Disaster Recovery Plans
• Managing and chairing the Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee (ARIC), representing and advocating for Council's interests, and ensuring high standards of governance and compliance
• Overseeing statutory compliance, corporate registers, and integrated planning/reporting obligations
• Managing the Council's insurance portfolio and high-level claims
• Acting as the Public Officer and managing Freedom of Information (GIPA) and Privacy matters
• Providing high-quality governance advice to the Executive, Managers, and Councillors
• Leading and mentoring staff to develop a strong, values-based team culture

To learn more about the role, view the Position Description here.

To be considered for this role, you will need tertiary qualifications in governance, law, policy, risk management, or business (or be actively working towards completion), combined with demonstrated experience in governance, legal, or administrative roles involving risk management practices. You will also have a sound understanding of relevant legislation and the ability to interpret and apply statutory requirements with accuracy and confidence.

Additionally, the following will be highly valued:

• Experience working in the Local Government sector or other government body
• Post-graduate qualifications in a relevant discipline
• Demonstrated skills in mentoring and developing staff
• High-level written and verbal communication skills
• Proven ability to exercise initiative, sound judgement, discretion, and confidentiality

As our ideal candidate, you will be a collaborative leader with a professional, assertive, yet approachable style. You will have the interpersonal skills to engage effectively with staff, councillors, and community stakeholders, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and service excellence. This role offers significant long-term career progression opportunities, including pathways to senior executive positions.

In return for your expertise, you'll receive a competitive salary of $118,000 – $131,000 p.a. PLUS 12% Super, plus an array of benefits, including:

• Relocation assistance up to $5,000
• WFH flexibility
• Private use vehicle leaseback through Council (post-tax)
• Rostered Day-Off | 9-day fortnight (70 hours over 9 days)
• Generous leave provisions under the NSW Local Government State Award
• Regular wellbeing initiatives and information
• Access to EAP services
• Fitness Passport membership
• Annual health checks and flu vaccinations
• Ongoing learning and professional development opportunities
• Voluntary corporate uniform and active social club

If you're ready to bring your governance expertise to a collaborative, forward-thinking regional council and enjoy the benefits of a country lifestyle, we want to hear from you - APPLY NOW