Manager – Strategy and Partnerships

Who we are looking for

Are you a strategic thinker who thrives on driving transformation and guiding teams through change? We have an ongoing full-time position for a Manager - Strategy and Partnerships, based in our Warrnambool office with a generous salary of $115,212 to $131,260 p.a. plus superannuation.

We're seeking a dynamic leader to oversee our strategic planning and reporting functions, foster key partnerships across First Nations, innovation, and sector-wide networks, and lead a small, high-performing team. In this pivotal role, you'll bring a growth mindset, empower others, and seek opportunities to help shape a future that's impactful, inclusive and forward-looking. The role provides an opportunity to directly support and influence our new strategic era.

What you'll be doing

On a day-to-day basis, you'll:

• Coordinate Board and Executive processes to establish and monitor our corporate strategy.
• Lead the implementation of our First Nations 'Towards Reconciliation' strategy, including strengthening relationships with Traditional Owner groups in our region.
• Coordinate our Innovation program and oversee our research and development projects and partnerships.
• Support the General Manager - Strategic Services to facilitate an annual program of activities for the Board Strategic Issues Committee.
• Manage a small team within the context of a high performing unit focused on navigating our future direction and business transformation.

What you'll bring

We're looking for someone with

• Foundational understanding of key governance and strategy principles.
• Experience in translating strategic intent into action and implementation of innovative propositions.
• Strong verbal and written communication and excellent time management.
• Experience in navigating complex operational environments.

For further details, see the position description available here.

We look forward to hearing from you. if you have any questions, feel free to call Ian Bail (General Manager Strategic Services) on

What we can offer

Putting people first comes naturally to us, and that includes the people we employ. You'll have every opportunity to make the most of your talents, broaden your experiences and be rewarded for the great work you do.

You'll be offered a range of great benefits including:

• Workplace flexibility with access to working arrangements such as hybrid work, flexible hours, purchased leave, monthly rostered days off and more.
• An inclusive workplace culture, which embraces diversity and the benefits it brings to the workplace and life.
• A leadership commitment to Zero Harm where the safety and wellbeing of our people and others is paramount.
• A Health & Wellbeing program, to support your physical, mental and financial wellbeing, including our Employee Assistance Program for our people and their immediate families.
• Extensive learning and development opportunities and access to professional development through associations such as CPA, IWC, WSAA, VicWater, and more.

We're an equal opportunity employer. Our commitment to creating and supporting an inclusive culture is reflected in our diverse mix of talented people who are passionate about delivering their best.

We welcome applications from everyone including people with a disability, job seekers of all ages, carers, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, members of the LGBTI+ community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

We are

• A certified Family Inclusive Workplace
• A Work 180 endorsed employer
• Members of the Diversity Council Australia
• Accredited members of the Health Workplaces Achievement Program

Ready to find out about our employee benefits? Visit Our Careers page and discover more about us.

How you can apply

Applications close: 11:59pm Sunday 5 October 2025

Click APPLY and you will be taken through to the Wannon Water Careers Portal to complete your application. Once there, you will be prompted to answer a few simple questions and upload your cover letter and resume.

As part of your cover letter, please outline how your skills and experience meet the role requirements (as outlined in the position description).

Reasonable Adjustments

We're here to support you through life's ups and downs. Whether you need adjustments during the recruitment process or at work, like flexible hours or accommodation for disabilities, we're here to help. We understand it can be daunting to share your needs, so feel free to reach out with any questions at Your information will be kept completely confidential.