Senior Coordinator Strategic Planning

Lead Strategic Urban Planning initiatives that will define the future of the City of Ryde.

As one of Sydney's fastest-growing local government areas, the City of Ryde is at the forefront of housing delivery, employment growth and infrastructure planning. With our population forecast to double over the coming decades, we are seeking an exceptional planning leader to help guide growth and ensure our city continues to thrive.

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced Strategic Planning professional to influence major planning reforms, lead high-profile projects, and create lasting outcomes for our community.

About the Role

The City of Ryde is seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Coordinator Strategic Planning (known as Senior Coordinator City Places within City of Ryde) working within the City Places Department to drive the delivery of Council’s strategic land use planning projects and initiatives. In this role, you’ll guide the preparation of long‑term plans and policies that shape how the city grows and develops. You’ll work closely with internal teams, government agencies, consultants, and the community to ensure Council’s strategic planning activities are well‑coordinated, compliant, and aligned with broader planning frameworks and community aspirations.

What You Will Be Doing

You will lead a team to coordinate strategic planning projects, including master plans, planning studies, and land-use initiatives, taking responsibility for project management, community consultation, and the management of consultants and contractors. You will prepare, monitor, and update key strategic land-use planning documents, including the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS), Local Environmental Plans (LEPs), and Development Control Plans (DCPs), ensuring they meet statutory requirements and align with Council’s strategic vision.

You will keep across changes to Federal, State, Regional, and Local planning policies and legislation, ensuring Council’s activities remain aligned with the broader planning framework. You’ll also oversee staff work programs, build strong internal and external partnerships, and identify funding opportunities to support strategic planning outcomes.

As part of the role, you will represent Council at community, government, industry, and committee meetings, contribute to the City Places Management Plan and budget, and respond confidently to internal and external enquiries related to strategic land‑use planning.

About You

You are an experienced Team Leader in strategic planning with strong leadership skills and a passion for shaping sustainable, well‑planned cities. You bring sound knowledge of the planning system, the ability to manage complex projects, and confidence engaging with stakeholders at all levels. You enjoy leading people, balancing priorities, and delivering outcomes that make a lasting positive impact on the community.

In addition, you will also have:

• Degree in Town Planning or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience in town planning, with a strong focus on strategic land use planning and policy development.
• Demonstrated experience in the preparation and delivery of strategic planning projects, including master plans, Local Strategic Planning Statements (LSPS), Development Control Plans (DCPs) and Local Environmental Plans (LEPs).
• Demonstrated experience in leading, coordinating and managing complex strategic planning projects, including the management of consultants, project budgets, timelines and multidisciplinary teams.
• Sound knowledge of Environmental Planning and Assessment Act.

Your commencing annual salary will range from $149,782.95 - $163,398.95 + Superannuation + MVA $13,500, dependent on your experience and qualifications.

Culture & Benefits

• We value your development – helping you grow within City of Ryde
• Commitment to providing opportunities for work/life balance
• Hybrid work from home and office arrangements available 
• Flexibility regarding start and finish times to suit your lifestyle
• Work 37.5 hours and enjoy a rostered day off approx. every 3 weeks  
• Long service leave after 5 years, then accrued monthly 
• 18 weeks paid parental leave (for eligible employees)
• 3 extra grant days at Christmas to ensure you have time to enjoy the holiday 
• Annual performance reviews and Award increases
• Opportunity to sign up as a fitness passport member
• Various health & well-being initiatives (i.e. flu vaccinations, skin checks, etc.)

How to apply 

Please ensure you give full answers to the online application questions, showcasing your abilities and experience. Your answers, in conjunction with your resume, will determine if you are invited to an interview. 

Please note you do not need a “password” to use our on-line application system, however you have the option save and return to your application prior to the closing date. In addition to answering the online questions, this position requires you to attach your Resume to complete the application process.  Please note, you are not required to submit a cover letter or a statement addressing selection criteria. 

Closing Date: Wednesday 13^th October 2026 at 11:30pm

If you would like to know more, please see the position description or contact Abdul Cheema, Manager City Places on 0478373631 for a confidential discussion relating to the role. If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact Kelly Hawkins, Talent Acquisition Specialist on 9952 8480.

City of Ryde is committed to Equal Employment and Child Safety