General Manager, Infrastructure and Operations in Cleveland

Shape the future of one of South East Qld’s most unique coastal communities.

Executive Leadership Role – circa $305 million annual budget. Lead 420+ staff across diverse infrastructure & operations services.

The Organisation:

Redland City Council serves a vibrant and growing community just 35 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD, encompassing the stunning Redlands Coast – from the mainland to the naturally beautiful Southern Moreton Bay Islands. With a population of over 160,000 residents, and an island footprint greater than that of its mainland, Council is committed to delivering high-quality infrastructure, sustainable growth, and liveable communities while preserving the region’s natural assets and rich cultural heritage.

Redlands is experiencing significant growth, particularly with the recent designation of the Southern Thornlands area as a Priority Development Area (PDA) along with the recent announcement of the Redland Whitewater Centre which is set to host the Canoe Slalom events for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This venue is expected to open in 2028, providing a lasting legacy well before and after the Games.

To support this continued growth, Council manages a portfolio of over $2.8 billion in community assets and provides essential services including roads, water and wastewater, waste management, parks, capital works, and operational maintenance. With a renewed corporate vision and strategic direction, the organisation is well positioned to enhance the delivery of innovative, sustainable and community-focused infrastructure and operations.

The Opportunity:

Reporting directly to the CEO and as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, the General Manager Infrastructure & Operations will lead a workforce of more than 420 employees across four functional departments to deliver critical services that support the liveability and economic development of the Redlands Coast: project delivery, water and waste, asset management, and maintenance/operations. Responsible for an annual operating budget of $192 million and a capital works budget of $113 million, this role will drive strategic asset planning, infrastructure development, and service excellence across a complex and geographically dispersed organisation. This position plays a key role in Council-wide initiatives, participating in steering committees and acting as a project sponsor for high-impact capital and operational projects.

Key deliverables will include the provision of visionary, values-based leadership, developing and implementing long and short-based infrastructure strategies which are aligned to the Corporate Plan, as well as cost-effective and customer-centric asset and infrastructure services, providing expert advice to the CEO, Mayor, and Councillors, as well as representing Council in key external forums and skilfully navigating a complex political and legislative environment.

Our Ideal Candidate:

To be considered for this role, you will be a deeply experienced executive with a strong track record in leading comparably large-scale and diverse infrastructure portfolios in either government or similarly complex, multi-disciplinary environments. With exceptional financial and project management acumen, you will demonstrate success in delivering asset-intensive services and capital projects while driving operational efficiency and strategic transformation. Your ability to influence and engage with a wide range of stakeholders – from elected officials to contractors and community groups – will be essential, as will your commitment to safety, people, public value, and governance.

To apply, please click ‘apply now’ and upload your CV and Cover Letter. For any questions not outlined in the PD and for a confidential discussion, please contact Ash Stewart at 0408 856 689 or Emma Wallace at 0432 060 301.

Davidson acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work and live. We are also committed to equal opportunity and strive to promote diversity, inclusion, belonging, flexibility, and accessibility in all that we do. Should you require assistance in your interactions with us or through a recruitment process, please let us know so we can provide adjustments for you.

Applications close on Friday 30 May 2025.