Job Description.

W&Co Search is proud to partner with Merri-bek City Council in the recruitment of the Unit Manager Assets and Programs.

Merri-bek is a vibrant and progressive inner metropolitan council recognised for its commitment to sustainability, social inclusion, good governance and community-focused planning. Covering suburbs such as Brunswick, Coburg, Glenroy and Fawkner, Merri-bek is a diverse and engaged community that values high quality infrastructure, transparency in investment and long term financial sustainability. The organisation has a strong reputation for innovation, environmental leadership and delivering services that reflect community aspirations.

Merri-bek Council acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung People as the Traditional Owners of the lands and waterways of the municipality and is committed to ongoing partnership and reconciliation. Merri-bek is also a Child Safe Organisation with zero tolerance for child abuse, recognising that children and young people have the right to be and feel safe and supported in all Council environments.

Merri-bek City Council is seeking a contemporary leader to guide the Assets and Programs Unit, ensuring infrastructure assets are strategically managed, financially sustainable and continually improving in condition. This senior role oversees asset planning, capital works development and the systems that inform evidence-based decisions across the organisation.

Reporting to the Manager Capital Works Planning and Delivery, you will lead a high calibre team spanning asset management, project management and GIS. The role is responsible for championing the Asset Management Policy, the 10 year Asset Plan and asset management plans for every major asset class. You will oversee the annual capital works program, maintain the single source of truth for forward investment and guide the refinement of project management frameworks that support strong governance.

This is a key leadership opportunity for someone who brings sound technical expertise, comfort with complexity and the ability to partner across the organisation. The role has a strong influence on long term financial planning, strategic prioritisation and transparent reporting to the Executive and other stakeholders. You will help strengthen project delivery capability, uplift systems and champion a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration and accountability.

Success will require alignment between strategic infrastructure commitments and financial planning, a systems-based approach to capital program development and the ability to provide clear senior-level advice. You will also lead financial valuation processes, support compliance with funding bodies and ensure timely capitalisation of works.

This role will appeal to a professional who understands asset management frameworks, capital works methodologies and the importance of operating with strong ethical, safety and community-focused values. It is an opportunity to make a tangible impact across one of Melbourne’s most diverse and engaged communities.

To view the Position Description for this opportunity, please copy and paste the following link into your browser: https://shorturl.at/BOtXK

For a confidential discussion, please contact Ashley Wilkes, Director at W&Co Search, on 0448 007 653 or via info@wcosearch.com

Applications should include a one page cover letter and a detailed resume outlining your relevant experience and alignment to the role.