Head of Planning & Construction

Brisbane Catholic Education (“BCE”) operates as an agency within the Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane, entrusted with providing Catholic education to 78,000 students across South‑East Queensland. Boasting an annual revenue of $1.5 billion, a workforce of 12,000 employees, and 146 schools, BCE seeks an experienced Head of Planning and Construction to lead the strategic planning, delivery, and stewardship of capital works across one of Australia’s largest and most complex education systems.

This critical senior leadership role requires a firm, robust leader who possesses exceptional project‑management skills to lead a team through a cultural transformation project. Reporting to the Corporate Services Executive and operating as a key member of the Corporate Services Leadership Team, you will provide system‑wide leadership across planning, construction, and facilities management.

You will oversee major capital projects from concept through to delivery, ensuring alignment with educational priorities, regulatory frameworks, safety standards, and long‑term asset strategy. You will lead and develop a multidisciplinary team of 20 building and construction professionals and work closely with school leaders, senior executives, government bodies, and external partners to deliver outcomes that are fit‑for‑purpose, future‑focused, and financially sound.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for all planning and construction activities across BCE schools
• Oversee the delivery of capital projects, ensuring time, cost, quality, safety, and compliance outcomes are met
• Lead asset planning, development, and ongoing facilities management for BCE‑owned and leased properties
• Build strong partnerships with school communities, senior leaders, and external stakeholders
• Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and best‑practice approaches to planning and construction
• Ensure compliance with statutory obligations, approved frameworks, and capital grant requirements
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing professional team aligned to BCE’s values and strategic direction
• Contribute to system‑wide leadership through collaboration with Executive and Corporate Services peers

This role will suit a seasoned leader with significant experience in construction, development, or major capital programs within complex environments and relevant tertiary qualifications in construction management, building, or a related discipline. You are comfortable leading through change, setting clear direction, and building trust in challenging settings. You bring strong judgement, credibility, and communication skills, and are known for your ability to manage risk, navigate competing priorities, and deliver outcomes in highly regulated environments.

BCE offers the opportunity to lead work of real purpose and scale, contributing directly to the environments where thousands of young people learn, grow, and flourish. You will be supported by a values‑led organisation committed to safeguarding, wellbeing, professional excellence, and service to community. A significant six‑figure salary is offered to attract an experienced, high‑calibre candidate who is an excellent leader and will embrace the ethos and values of BCE.