Manager, Safe City

Manager/Safe City

• Provide strategic, values-driven leadership overseeing regulatory compliance and community safety
• Work within a supportive environment that values work-life balance and professional growth
• Salary from $168, $181,831.28 p.a. plus 12% Superannuation and $10,000 travel allowance (Pay Grade L)

Make a Difference Where You Work

Willoughby City Council is seeking a visionary, values-led and purpose-driven leader to take on the role of Manager Safe City. This pivotal role leads the strategic delivery of Council's regulatory, compliance and public safety functions — including environmental health, development and building compliance, parking and ranger services. The position is critical to advancing Council's commitment to public safety, community wellbeing and a thriving local community.

The ideal candidate is a proactive, people-centred leader who combines strong governance with a passion for service. A leader who understands that compliance is not just about enforcement, but a tool to build trust, deliver better outcomes and shape how people experience their city.

Why Join Us?

• Meaningful Impact: Lead proactive strategies that keep our city safe, sustainable, and vibrant.
• Collaborative Environment: Join an inclusive organisation known for excellence, innovation, and community care.
• Trusted Leadership: Guide complex safety and compliance matters with integrity, transparency, and purpose.

About the Role

As the Manager/Safe City you will:

• Lead the implementation of Council's Safe City Strategy, aligned with the Community Strategic Plan and IP&R framework
• Manage and lead multidisciplinary teams across environmental health, building compliance, parking enforcement and ranger operations
• Respond decisively to high-risk, politically sensitive, or crisis-driven situations, maintaining community confidence and organisational reputation
• Foster a customer-focused culture that ensures respectful, and timely driven service delivery
• Champion innovation and digital transformation, including mobile inspections, data analytics and automation
• Build strong partnerships with NSW Police, EPA, Health, and neighbouring councils to address shared community safety challenges
• Lead complex investigations and represent Council in legal and regulatory proceedings
• Monitor performance dashboards, using data and insights to guide strategic improvement
• Manage operational budgets with integrity, ensuring cost-effectiveness and long-term financial alignment

What You'll Bring

• Tertiary qualifications in Environmental Health, Planning, Building Surveying, Law, Regulatory  Services, or a related field — or equivalent experience
• Deep understanding of NSW legislation governing local government compliance and safety functions
• Proven leadership in regulatory or enforcement teams, with experience navigating complex or sensitive issues
• Expertise in risk-based compliance, strategic planning and operational excellence
• Strong financial management and experience managing significant service delivery budgets
• Exceptional communication, stakeholder management and advocacy skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead change, build high-performing teams, and drive continuous improvement
• Current NSW Class C Driver's Licence

Desirable Criteria:

• Postgraduate qualifications in Public Administration, Business or Regulatory Leadership
• AP2 Certificate in Engagement or experience in community safety partnerships

How to apply

Visit to apply or learn more including all about the range of benefits on offer at Willoughby.

For more information on the role, please contact Srima McQuillan, Director, Community at

Applications should address all the key responsibilities outlined in the Position Description.

Successful candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening including police and qualification checks.

Applications close: Sunday, 7 September 2025 at 11.30 pm

Please note recruitment activity may commence before the closing date.

At Willoughby City Council, inclusion, diversity and belonging are core to how we work and how we recruit. We are committed to building a workplace that reflects the diversity of our community – one where everyone feels respected, valued and supported to contribute fully. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities and identities – including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, LGBTIQA+ communities, veterans, and people of all ages. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, we encourage you to let us know. We are committed to ensuring an accessible, inclusive and barrier-free experience for every candidate.