Muswellbrook Shire Council has unveiled a new organisational structure aimed at strengthening its ability to navigate the most significant period of economic change in the Shire’s history as it transitions away from heavy reliance on coal mining and power generation toward renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable agriculture.
The Council says the establishment of a new Economic Investment Directorate forms part of its broader commitment to Powering the Future Economy, ensuring the organisation is equipped to lead through change, attract investment and support economic diversification to position the Shire for long-term prosperity.
The restructure also establishes a new Corporate and Community Services Directorate, providing a stronger focus on community services, customer experience, finance, procurement and property services. At the same time, the Infrastructure Directorate will now place an increased focus on delivering major infrastructure projects while maintaining the Shire’s essential assets.
General Manager, Derek Finnigan said the changes are about ensuring Council’s structure reflects the community’s priorities while continuing to deliver better outcomes.
“Our community is in a period of significant change and Council has an important role in shaping what comes next,” Mr Finnigan said.
“By strengthening our organisation now, we are ensuring Council has the capability and capacity to support the community through this change while improving the services our community relies on every day.”
The Economic Investment Directorate brings together economic development and investment attraction, strategic projects, media and engagement, tourism and events, and the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre to better coordinate investment, regional promotion and economic opportunities.
“This is not a transition; it’s an industrial repositioning, being led by Muswellbrook Shire Council, driven by local knowledge and local voices,” Director Economic Investment Shaelee Richards said.
“Our focus is clear: build long-term economic resilience, attract new investment, support local business, diversify our economy and create new jobs for the region.”
Mayor, Jeff Drayton said Council was taking proactive steps to position Muswellbrook Shire for the future.
“Muswellbrook Shire stands at a defining economic crossroads. Right now, there isn’t a more important task for Council than managing these economic challenges and securing new jobs and industries for our community,” the Mayor said.
“Ultimately, this focus on economic development will help shape a prosperous future for current and future generations and ensure Muswellbrook Shire remains one of regional Australia’s most desirable locations.”
Council is currently recruiting for a number of positions across the new organisational strucutre. To view current opportunities and learn more about working with Muswellbrook Shire Council, visit https://www.muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au/vacant-positions/.
