The Tiwi Islands, 80km north of Darwin, are a remote and culturally rich region made up of Bathurst and Melville Islands. Over 90% of residents are Tiwi, and culture plays a central role in everyday life. The Tiwi Islands Regional Council delivers key services across Wurrumiyanga, Pirlangimpi, Milikapiti and surrounding outstations.

About the Role:

As Chief Executive Officer of Tiwi Islands Regional Council, you’ll be responsible for running the day-to-day operations of Council, including its services, people, and resources. Working closely with the Mayor and Councillors, you’ll provide practical advice, support good decision-making, and make sure Council’s priorities are delivered in a way that meets the needs of Tiwi communities. The recruitment process is being conducted in accordance with Northern Territory Government Guideline 2 under the Local Government Act 2019. The role covers a wide range of services — from waste and infrastructure to youth programs, community safety, and regulatory services. You will make sure these services are well planned, properly funded, and delivered consistently. As Chief Executive Officer you will lead a team of managers and senior staff across the Islands, supporting them in both daily operations and long-term planning. This includes overseeing recruitment, performance, and staff development, and creating a positive workplace culture built on safety, respect, and accountability. The role will also manage Council’s finances, including the budget, annual planning, and long-term financial strategy. Grants, contracts, reporting, and meeting Northern Territory and Commonwealth requirements will all be part of the role, along with overseeing governance, risk, and internal processes. This is a hands-on role, managing competing priorities, responding to challenges as they arise, and keeping a clear connection between Council’s long-term goals and what is being delivered on the ground. As Chief Executive Officer, you will work closely with the community, represent Council in key discussions, and build strong relationships with government and stakeholders to secure support and resources. This is a role that brings professional stretch and personal meaning - a chance to apply your skills and experience where they’re needed and where the impact is tangible.

Essential Criteria:

“In accordance with section 166 of the Local Government Act 2019 (the Act), Regulation 109(1)(b) of the Local Government (General) Regulations 2001 (the Regulations) and Ministerial Guideline 2 – Appointing a CEO (Guideline 2). Section 166(1) of the Act states the following:

1) A person is not eligible to be the CEO or the Deputy CEO if:

a) the person is disqualified from managing a corporation under the Corporations Act 2001 or the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (Cth); or

b) the person is disqualified under section 40 of the Associations Act 2003;

or c) the person is bankrupt.”

Within the application form you are required to provide a response to the following Key Selection Criteria:

Leadership

• Proven leadership at the Chief Executive Officer or senior executive level, with the ability to understand and implement legislation impacting on Local Government.
• High level strategic planning skills and corporate governance skills.
• Delegation skills to ensure the achievement of outcomes, accountability of management and staff and the development of employees' abilities.
• Understanding of the application of contemporary human resource management principles.

Policy Implementation

• Good knowledge of public policy issues as they impact on local government.
• Experience in developing and implementing policy relevant to the business of local government.
• An understanding of the Northern Territory Local Government Act.

Governance and Compliance

• Demonstrated capacity to administer the Local Government Act and associated legislation in the field of local government.
• Ability to support the Council to make the most informed decisions on behalf of their constituents.
• Knowledge of statutory, legal and contractual obligations.

Financial Results

• Extensive experience in financial management including the development of long- term financial plans.

Community Development

• Demonstrated ability to apply knowledge of sustainability and its application of the economic, social and environmental principles at an organisation level.
• Considerable experience in dealing with the public and special interest groups.
• An understanding of rural culture and the ability to work with people at all levels.

General Management Competencies

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent decision-making skills and an analytical approach to problem solving.

Qualifications and/or Experience

• A degree or equivalent in a relevant tertiary Management, Business and/or Public Sector Administration discipline or comparable work experience is expected for this position.

The Tiwi Islands offer a unique and enriching lifestyle, where you will be living and working closely with the local community. The role offers a salary up to $240,000, fully subsidised accommodation on the Tiwi Islands, including electricity and water, a $5,000 travel allowance, and a vehicle for full use

To Apply
View the Information Package and Position Description - once you have read these please contact John Oberhardt on 0411 869 110 for a confidential discussion regarding the position.