| Job Title: | Manager Economic Development |
| Job Type: | Permanent Full Time |
| Location: | Maroochydore |
| Classification: | Economic Development and Tourism |
| Client: | Sunshine Coast Council |
| Reference: | 3862 |
| Job Published: | 04 Mar 2026 |
| Closing Date: | 23 Mar 2026 |
Job Description
Manager Economic Development | Sunshine Coast Council | Maroochydore
Shape the economic future of one of Australia’s most strategically positioned regions.
Lead investment attraction, industry growth and major economic initiatives.
Non-award contract.
Sunshine Coast Council is seeking a commercially astute and strategically grounded leader for the pivotal role of Manager Economic Development. This is a rare opportunity to drive high-value economic outcomes in a region experiencing sustained growth, global connectivity and increasing national prominence.
As the Manager Economic Development, you will provide strategic leadership and commercial direction across Council’s economic portfolio. Reporting to the Director Sustainable Growth and Planning, you will lead the review and implementation of the Regional Economic Development Strategy and position the region to secure high-impact investment aligned to long-term growth objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Leading the review, refresh and implementation of the Regional Economic Development Strategy.
Identifying and progressing significant commercial and industry attraction opportunities.
Engaging senior government, investor and industry stakeholders to secure investment outcomes.
Providing robust economic and commercial advice to the Executive Leadership Team, Mayor and Councillors.
Overseeing a substantial operational budget and ensuring disciplined financial governance.
Positioning the Sunshine Coast to leverage opportunities associated with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
About You
You are a commercially sharp operator with experience in economic strategy, investment attraction, major development outcomes and/or expert advisory consulting environments. You bring strong financial acumen, political awareness and the ability to engage confidently with elected officials and private sector investors.
You lead with clarity and professionalism, building trust quickly and drive performance through collaboration. You are comfortable operating in complex, high-visibility environments and have the resilience to deliver outcomes within a publicly accountable setting.
Why the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast offers a rare combination of economic momentum and enviable lifestyle. With expanding infrastructure, global connectivity and a forward-focused Council, this is an opportunity to shape meaningful economic transformation in one of Australia’s most dynamic regional centres.
How to Apply
Please download the candidate information package to view the position description and selection criteria before submitting your application.
Applications close strictly at 5pm Monday 23rd March 2026.
