Title: Director Metropolitan Planning Services
About Us
We create thriving places and connected communities. We plan, build and maintain Victoria’s transport, planning and land services. We are committed to a safe, inclusive and high-performing workplace.
We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive workplace where our people can thrive and do meaningful work.
About the role
This is a Fixed Term Position (Executive Contract up to 5 years).
The Director Metropolitan Planning Services provides strategic leadership for the delivery of statutory planning services across metropolitan Melbourne. The role oversees the assessment and approval of planning scheme amendments and provides expert advice to government, local councils and senior decision-makers on complex planning matters. Working closely with the Planning portfolio and senior departmental leaders, the Director ensures timely, high-quality statutory planning outcomes while supporting reform of Victoria’s planning system. Success in this role strengthens the integrity, consistency and performance of metropolitan planning processes and supports sustainable growth across Victoria.
What we’re looking for (Selection Criteria)
You’re someone who:
- Enjoys leading complex statutory planning programs that shape metropolitan growth and development
- Can build strong partnerships with local government, industry and senior stakeholders to deliver high-quality planning outcomes
- Demonstrates strong strategic thinking and can provide authoritative advice on complex planning issues
- Leads high-performing teams and fosters a collaborative, accountable and inclusive culture
- Can navigate complex policy, legislative and stakeholder environments while maintaining delivery momentum
Click here to access the Position Description.
Qualifications and experience
You’ll bring:
- A strong track record delivering high-quality planning assessments and outcomes in complex environments
- Extensive leadership experience in statutory planning or a related planning policy environment
- Demonstrated experience leading stakeholder engagement across government, local councils and industry
- Proven ability to lead teams, manage competing priorities and drive organisational performance
- A relevant tertiary qualification in urban planning or a related discipline
- Experience in mass transport, ticketing, payments, large-scale technology or infrastructure operations (highly regarded)
Pre-employment checks and employment conditions
Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will be required.
Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position.
Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply.
How to apply
Click the ‘Apply’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application.
Applications close at 11.59pm on Wednesday, 1 April 2026.
Please include both your resume and a cover letter addressing how your experience addresses each of the key selection criteria for the role. All applications must be submitted via the online portal, we’re unable to accept email or manual submissions.
For further information about the role, please contact Alison McFarlane, Executive Director, State Planning Services and Heritage via alison.mcfarlane@transport.vic.gov.au
Important Information
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