Apply: Manager for People and Business Services

Our Client

Berri Barmera Council serves a vibrant Riverland community on the banks of the Murray River in South Australia. Renowned for its stunning river landscapes, thriving agricultural industry and welcoming community spirit, the region offers an exceptional lifestyle with opportunities to live, work, play and invest.

Council plays a key role in supporting sustainable growth, community wellbeing and the delivery of essential local services across the district. With a strong focus on innovation and long-term planning, Berri Barmera Council is committed to creating a prosperous future for the region and its residents.

The Role

Reporting to the General Manager Community and Corporate Services, you will lead the Council’s people and business services function, supporting organisational effectiveness and high-quality service delivery.

• Provide strategic and operational leadership across people and business services.
• Support Council priorities through sound advice, planning and service coordination.
• Lead initiatives that strengthen organisational capability and employee experience.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to understand needs and deliver practical solutions.
• Oversee relevant policies, processes, systems and compliance requirements.
• Contribute to continuous improvement across Council operations.
• Promote a constructive, accountable and community-focused working environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of people and business services aligned with Council priorities.
• Provide trusted advice to senior leaders on organisational and workforce matters.
• Develop and implement policies, processes and initiatives that support effective operations.
• Oversee workforce planning, employee lifecycle activities and related services.
• Support leaders in building capability, performance and positive workplace relationships.
• Ensure people and business services are delivered consistently, professionally and efficiently.
• Monitor compliance with relevant legislation, policies and governance requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve systems, processes and the employee experience.
• Prepare clear reports, recommendations and information for internal stakeholders.
• Build effective relationships across Council and the broader community.

About You

• Relevant tertiary qualification in human resources, business, management or a related discipline is - highly regarded.
• Demonstrated experience leading people, business or corporate services, preferably in a complex organisation.
• Experience supporting organisational planning, policy development, compliance and continuous improvement.
• Strong understanding of contemporary workforce practices and business operations.
• Experience in local government or another public-sector environment would be advantageous.
• Clear communicator who provides practical, trusted advice to stakeholders at all levels.
• Collaborative and service-oriented, with the judgement to manage sensitive and competing priorities.
• Resilient, accountable and community-minded, with a commitment to inclusive leadership.

In Return

• Make a meaningful contribution to the people, operations and services of a regional council.
• Enjoy a prominent leadership role in South Australia’s attractive Riverland region.
• Live and work close to the Murray River, with access to a welcoming and active community.
• Benefit from a lifestyle approximately two hours from Adelaide and 90 minutes from Mildura.
• Join a region offering hospitality, entertainment, sport, produce and community involvement.

Next Steps

To apply for this role, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button and include your CV and Cover Letter addressing the Essential Experience and Qualifications.

Applications close Thursday 24th September 2026. 

For a confidential conversation, please contact Matt Hobby at Perks People Solutions on (08) 8273 9385.