Team Leader - Early Years Planning and Partnerships

• Hobsons Bay Civic Centre, Altona, close to public transport
• Position type: Permanent, Full Time 
• Salary: Band 7 $106,557.18 - $118,949.67 + RDO + superannuation 

We're here. We're community. We're Hobsons Bay.

At Hobsons Bay City Council, we’re committed to creating a workplace that reflects our community and values. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking organisation that supports innovation, collaboration, and professional growth, and which aspires to be the exemplar of Local Government.

The opportunity

The Team Leader Early Years Planning and Partnerships is a strategic leadership role responsible for supporting high-quality kindergarten and early years services across Hobsons Bay. Working closely with service providers, government agencies and community stakeholders, this position leads planning, partnerships, service improvement initiatives and the Kindergarten Central Registration Scheme while building a high-performing team and responding to the current and future needs of local children and families. We're looking for someone who can join us in early January 2027 and hit the ground running in this exciting leadership opportunity.
 
What you’ll do
 

• Lead strategic partnerships with early years providers, government agencies and community stakeholders.
• Manage and develop a multidisciplinary team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.
• Oversee the Kindergarten Central Registration Scheme and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Prepare funding submissions and support access to government funding opportunities.
• Provide expert advice on service planning, infrastructure needs, policy development and future demand forecasting.

What you need to succeed

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Early Years, Social Science, Community Development or a related discipline, supported by substantial relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience within the community services and/or early years sector, with a strong understanding of services that support children, families and communities.
• Strong knowledge of early years legislation, funding, governance frameworks and Victorian kindergarten reforms, with the ability to apply this knowledge to service planning and continuous improvement.
• Proven people leadership experience, with the ability to develop, motivate and lead high-performing teams in complex service environments.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement, negotiation and conflict resolution skills, with a demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships and influence positive outcomes.
• Strong analytical, financial and problem-solving skills, including experience using business systems, databases and data to inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement.
• Strong people leadership skills, including experience leading, developing and motivating teams to achieve high performance.

To be considered for this role applications should include

• A cover letter (maximum two pages) which should outline your interest in the role
• A current CV which includes key achievements & relevant qualifications

Uncover more about this role in the Position Description attached below, or contact Michelle Findlay, Coordinator Early Years via careers@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Applications will be accepted until 11:30pm on 22nd October 2026.

To ensure fairness and consistency for all applicants, we are unable to accept late submissions or submissions made via email. We appreciate your understanding and encourage timely applications via Council's online portal.

Pre-Employment Requirements 

Progressed candidates will be required to complete a National Police Record Check, & a Working With Children Check (WWCC). Candidates must also hold a valid Victorian Driver's License. 

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa with full unrestricted working rights. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process. 

What we can offer 

• Hybrid working flexibility, whether you're home, or in our newly renovated & spacious office facilities.
• Our location in the centre of Altona is close to public transport, cafes and parks. Enjoy your lunch at the pier, or an afternoon walk along the lake.
• Go to the gym or ride your bike before work? Our End of Trip Facility offers bike storage and shower facilities to get you refreshed and ready to go!
• Exclusive staff access to our Employee Assistance Program, wellbeing programs, discounted local gym membership, Reflexology sessions, Meditation, Yoga & Circuit classes, and walking & social clubs.
• Ongoing professional development support - we'll champion your growth, because your career matters to us!
• A team that’s shaping a brighter future, working together to create a sustainable, thriving community for generations to come.

We are a proud inclusive employer. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply for our job opportunities. Our commitment is to provide diverse, safe and inclusive environments where everyone can grow and succeed.

Attachments:
- 20260902 TL- EY Planning and Partnerships PD.pdf
- 20260902 TL- EY Planning and Partnerships PD.docx