Team Leader Assessments
Job No:
NSYD568
Location:
North Sydney
Are you ready to lead a high performing planning team and make a measurable impact in one of Sydney’s most dynamic local government areas?
North Sydney Council is seeking a driven and experienced Team Leader Assessments to lead our Development Services team through the next phase of performance, reform and growth.
North Sydney Council administers a vibrant and evolving local government area on Sydney’s lower North Shore. Our 400 employees support a community of 77,000 residents across a compact, high-profile LGA known for its harbour foreshore, strategic location, and significant development activity.
The role
We are seeking a confident and capable leader to take ownership of our Assessments Team and drive performance, quality, and consistency in development assessment outcomes.
This is a hands on leadership role where you will:
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Lead and manage a team of Statutory Planners and technical specialists
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Drive assessment timeframes and contribute to Council’s performance against NSW Planning Portal benchmarks
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Oversee complex development applications and provide high-level statutory advice
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Ensure quality, consistency and defensibility in assessment reporting and decision-making
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Mentor and develop staff capability, building a high-performing and engaged team
North Sydney Council is currently ranked 14th across Metro Sydney on the NSW Planning Portal league table — a strong result that reflects our focus on continuous improvement and accountability. This role plays a key part in maintaining and improving that performance.
With ongoing NSW planning reforms and increasing expectations around assessment efficiency and transparency, you will also contribute to process improvements and system enhancements that support smarter, faster decision making.
The person
This role will suit an experienced planning professional who is ready to step into a leadership position with real influence.
You will bring:
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Extensive experience in development assessment within local government
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Strong working knowledge of the NSW planning system, including merit assessment and Land and Environment Court processes
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Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor and manage team performance
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Confidence in managing complex applications and negotiating balanced planning outcomes
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex issues
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A proactive, solutions-focused approach and the ability to drive continuous improvement
You will thrive in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment and be motivated by delivering measurable results, supporting your team, and contributing to high quality urban outcomes.
Why work at NSC?
We are committed to building a high-performing, collaborative and supportive workplace where people can do their best work.
Our Development Services team has recently undergone internal reforms focused on process improvement, team capability and performance outcomes — positioning us strongly to meet the evolving demands of the NSW planning system.
Our Civic Centre is located directly above the Victoria Cross Metro Station, providing fast, direct access to the Sydney CBD and making your daily commute simple and efficient.
North Sydney Council offers a range of benefits, including:
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Prime location with excellent public transport connectivity
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35-hour working week with access to flexi-time
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Flexible working arrangements
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Fitness Passport access
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Health and wellbeing programs (including flu vaccinations, skin checks and classes)
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Employee Assistance Program and financial counselling
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Transport allowance
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Learning, development and career progression opportunities
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A supportive and high-performing team culture
This is not just a job, it’s an opportunity to lead a capable team, influence planning outcomes, and be part of a Council that is actively improving how it delivers for its community.
How to apply
Applicants are required to submit a resume and provide a brief summary of how your skills and experience meet the key requirements of the role.
Salary from: $135,976 to $162,361 per annum + 12% superannuation + $1,000 pa transport allowance
(Market allowance may be negotiated with the successful candidate)
35 hours per week with access to flexi time
To view the Position Description, Click Here
Closing Date: 15 May 2026 - 11.30pm
North Sydney Council is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity in order to provide a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. North Sydney Council also adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people. We strongly encourage candidates from wide-ranging backgrounds, identities and experiences to apply.
