Lismore City Council is looking for a new GM; here’s what they want

It’s the top job in the region but one that requires not only a thick skin to deal with councillors and ratepayers, but also a high level of management and finely-tuned leadership skills.

GM RECRUITMENT: Lismore City Council is recruiting for another general manager but as history has shown, it’s not a job for the faint-hearted.

Everyone has an opinion on just what it takes to lead Lismore City Council, but all agree that in reality it’s a bloody hard job.

The last two general managers of the council were Gary Murphy, who is under investigation after being sacked at Central Coast Council and Shelley Oldham whose contract with Lismore City Council was terminated in February after councillors voted in a confidential session to end her employment.

Although Ms Oldham walked away with a $239,000 payout, it’s clearly not a role for the faint-hearted.

But if you are interested you better hurry up as applications close on May 25.

A Lismore City Council spokesman said there had been a “solid response”.

“Councillors will now work with the process,” he said.

“There will be an announcement made well before the end of the financial year.”

The process is being managed by Capstone Recruitment Group who have pitched the role as “a fabulous opportunity … for a driven and suitably qualified individual to lead Lismore City Council as general manager”.

Capstone also noted in the job advertisement: “this position will suit an individual whom is passionate about community and leadership and whom has a strong sense of integrity and ownership”.

They also touted “an attractive remuneration package … for the successful applicant”.

Before you toss your hat in the ring, according to the job advertisements, this is what the role encompasses:

“The role supports councillors, staff and the community in developing a clear vision for a vibrant and sustainable region and implementing the strategic direction,” the ad said.

“This role will embed a culture of continuous improvement in the organisation and will provide leadership, foster and drive local economic development at every opportunity, and demonstrate a commitment for Lismore, its people and future.

“The incumbent is expected to reside in the Northern Rivers.”

According to the ad, the recruiters are looking for someone who can “lead the council, building its reputation as a professional, transparent, accountable and efficient organisation” and “promote economic development through working with the local business community, new entrants and investors for a sustainable future”.

The right applicant would “successfully balance economic initiatives with social, environmental and urban/rural community interests”, could “guide the organisation to embed sound governance and risk management practices” and “maintain a future focus to strategically enable the organisation to implement and deliver plans that promote long term financial sustainability” while delivering on the council’s targets.

“The general manager will be accountable to the council and is required to comply with their legislative responsibilities under Section 335 of the Local Government Act, WHS Act, Council’s Code of Conduct, employment contract and other relevant legislation,” the ad said.

Applications for the position close on Tuesday, May 25.

For a copy of the comprehensive candidate brochure contact Gareth Broadrick or Clive Brown at [e-mail] or call 02 9146 6660.