Strategic Planning Manager

Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC) Full Time Permanent 23/02/2026

Shape the future of Southern Sydney! Lead regional strategy across 12 councils. Apply now to be SSROC’s next Strategic Planning Manager.

  • Work at the vital intersection of local, state, and federal government priorities.
  • Collaborate daily with CEOs and senior planners across the entire Sydney basin.
  •  Tackle everything from transport and housing to digital connectivity and resilience.

The Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC) is a powerful influential alliance of 12 local governments representing over 1.8 million people across one of Australia’s most diverse and economically significant regions. They serve as a critical bridge between local and state governments, focusing on large-scale collaborative projects that individual councils simply couldn’t tackle alone. From pioneering sustainable waste management and renewable energy initiatives to advocating for integrated transport and liveable urban design, SSROC is at the forefront of shaping the future of Southern Sydney. By joining their team, you become part of a legacy of regional leadership that prides itself on innovation, resource sharing, and a collective voice that resonates at every level of government.

As the Strategic Planning Manager, you will occupy a pivotal role in translating regional challenges into actionable, effective strategies. You will be responsible for leading complex projects that intersect with land-use planning, environmental sustainability, and regional infrastructure development. This role requires a sophisticated understanding of the NSW planning system and the ability to navigate the unique political and operational landscapes of our member councils to find common ground. You will work closely with the CEO and senior stakeholders to identify emerging trends, secure funding through robust grant applications, and deliver evidence-based advocacy that ensures Southern Sydney remains a world-class place to live and work.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker who possesses a blend of technical planning expertise and interpersonal diplomacy. You are someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and has a proven track record of managing multi-stakeholder projects where negotiation and persuasion are key to success. They are looking for a professional with significant experience in strategic or urban planning who can communicate complex ideas with clarity and wit to diverse audiences. If you are a proactive leader driven by the desire to create lasting public value and you possess the resilience to drive long-term regional change, we invite you to apply.

Applications for this role should be made online at lgnsw.org.au/lgms

Please attach your response to the selection criteria to your application. An information package including a comprehensive position description can also be found on the website.

All applicants must address the selection criteria to be considered for this role.

To learn more about the organisation visit https://ssroc.nsw.gov.au/

For further assistance, please contact Christian Morris on 0417 693 254, for a confidential discussion.

Applications close 5pm, Monday 23 March 2026.