Investment Attraction & Business Growth Lead

Drive business growth, attract investment, and lead strategic partnerships in a newly created role.

We are seeking a proactive, strategic, and business-minded leader for the newly created role of Investment Attraction & Business Growth Lead. This is a unique opportunity to shape and deliver initiatives that support business growth, strengthen industry connections, and contribute to a thriving and diverse regional economy.

Why join Colac Otway?

Located just two hours from Melbourne, Colac Otway is one of Victoria's most naturally diverse regions-home to rainforests, volcanic lakes, and the iconic Great Ocean Road. It's a region with strong potential for growth, innovation, and investment.

Council offers:

• Flexible work arrangements.
• Monthly RDOs.
• Supportive, values-driven culture.
• Opportunities to lead and influence regional strategy.
• A strategic role with real economic impact.

About the role

You'll lead the development and delivery of strategies that attract investment, support local business growth, and promote Colac Otway's competitive advantages. Key responsibilities include:

• Develop and deliver strategies to attract investment and support business growth.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders and government agencies.
• Support local businesses with expansion, export, and sustainability.
• Lead economic development projects and securing funding.
• Promote the region through marketing and advocacy.
• Provide insights and analysis on local economic trends.
• Represent Council at key forums to advocate for regional opportunities.

About you:

You're a confident communicator and strategic thinker with a passion for regional development. You bring:

• Experience in economic or business development, industry engagement, or planning.
• Strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to identify and pursue investment and development opportunities.
• Confidence in building and maintaining strategic partnerships.
• Analytical and research capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Understanding of government grants, programs, and policy frameworks.
• Tertiary qualifications in Business, Economics, Planning, or a related field.
• Experience in local government or complex organisations (desirable).
• Leadership qualities with the ability to influence and inspire others.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a region with strong potential and community support. You'll have the scope to shape your role, the backing of a committed leadership team, and the chance to deliver initiatives that strengthen the Colac Otway Shire region.

For a position description or to apply, please visit the McArthur website here.

For a confidential conversation, please contact Danielle Jupp on (03) 9828 6565 or 0403 398 242 referencing job number J7575.

Applications close: Monday 21^st July 2025.

The Colac Otway Shire Council is a child safe organisation and is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Please do not use the application form here on the Council Website to submit your application. All applications must be submitted to McArthur directly using the above link.