Some conversations cannot be avoided. They simply need the right person leading them.

• Level 7 Salary band $110,000-$117,000 + super and salary packaging
• Six weeks' annual leave
• Matched super contributions of up to 2%

Litchfield Council is looking for an experienced HR and WHS Program Leader who can remain calm when situations become complex, communicate clearly when the message is difficult and make sound decisions even when they may not be the easiest ones.

This is not a role for someone who sits on the sidelines. You will be a trusted adviser to senior leaders, helping Council navigate sensitive people matters, workplace safety, workers' compensation, performance concerns, restructures and EBA negotiations.

Your ability to read the room will matter. You will know when to listen, when to challenge and when a firm position needs to be held. Most importantly, you will do it respectfully lowering the temperature rather than adding to it.

What you'll be trusted to do

• Provide practical HR, industrial relations and WHS advice
• Manage sensitive employee matters with discretion and sound judgement
• Support workers' compensation cases and return-to-work planning
• Guide leaders through performance management, change and restructures
• Contribute to EBA negotiations and engagement with Fair Work
• Strengthen governance, compliance, privacy and risk practices
• Build manager confidence and capability across the organisation

You will work closely with the Director Corporate Services and senior leadership. While the position has no direct reports, it carries considerable influence across Council.

What you'll bring

You will have at least three years' relevant Australian experience, although five or more years would be ideal, supported by qualifications in HR, WHS or a related discipline - however experience far out weighs the qualification!

You will also bring strong WHS knowledge, experience managing complex workplace matters and the confidence to provide clear, defensible advice. Local government experience would be valuable, but it is not essential.

Above all, you will be composed, credible and comfortable taking ownership. You won't avoid a difficult conversation but you will always approach it with fairness, integrity and respect.

If you know how to balance people, risk and organisational needs without losing sight of what is right, we would like to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion, connect with our Recruitment Business Partner, Victoria Williams on 03 9691 4712