Expression of Interest

We are inviting business owners and operators in Sutherland Shire as well as representatives from the broader local business community, to apply for a position as a representative on Council’s Business and Industry Reference Group.

The Business and Industry Reference Group supports Council in driving economic and employment growth in the Sutherland Shire.

As a representative, you'll collaborate with subject matter experts, Council officials and key external organisations to ensure the views of local residents and businesses are heard. The group provides independent advice to Council to support the delivery of the following outcomes:

  • increase the number of local jobs,
  • increase Sutherland Shire’s business output,
  • increase the number of Sutherland Shire residents holding employment qualifications,
  • increase the average tourism spend.

Applications close 5:00pm Sunday 9 February 2025 and roles will commence in early March 2025.

We are looking for representatives from the following industries of local business:

  • Education
  • Business Services
  • Healthcare & Allied Health
  • Tourism, Hospitality, Retail, Arts & Recreation
  • Professional Services & Scientific
  • Manufacturing, Construction & Transport
  • Business Networks

Eligibility:

  • own or operate, or have previously owned or operated, a local business within Sutherland Shire, or
  • have at least five years of leadership experience in a senior role within one or more of the industries listed above,
  • can attend and participate in Reference Group meetings at least four times a year at Council's administration building in Sutherland,
  • demonstrate a professional and ethical approach and can work collaboratively with stakeholders and technical experts in a professional manner.

We welcome Expressions of Interest from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, and individuals of diverse ages, cultures and experiences.

As a member of the Reference Group, you will have a responsibility to understand and follow our Code of Conduct for Council Committee Members, Delegates of Council and Council Advisers.

You are ineligible to be a representative on a Reference Group if you:

  • have been employed by Sutherland Shire Council or a joint organisation in the past 12 months; or
  • have a close personal or business relationship with a Sutherland Shire Councillor or a person who has a senior role at Sutherland Shire Council that may lead to a real or perceived conflict of interest; or
  • are currently providing, or in the past 3 years have provided, any material goods or services – including consultancy, legal, internal audit or advisory services – to Sutherland Shire Council which directly affect subjects or issues considered by the Reference Group; or
  • are employed in any role that may lead to a real or perceived conflict of interest.

About the role

Term

Representatives will be appointed for up to a four-year term and can be reappointed for one further term, however, the total period of continuous membership cannot exceed eight years. Community representatives who have served an eight-year term must have a two-year break from serving on the Reference Group before being reappointed.

We will advise successful applicants by February / Early March 2025 with your role to commence soon after.

Meeting frequency

The Reference Group meets at least four times a year, or if significant unexpected issues arise, additional meetings will be called. Meetings will be held at Council’s Administration Building in Sutherland Shire.

As a community representative, you are expected to read and review documents provided before each meeting.

Membership

To provide independent advice and input on matters within its scope, the Reference Group will be composed of the following members:

  • Five Councillors (including a Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson)
  • Director Community
  • Senior Manager Business & Community
  • Council Officers
  • Two Community Representatives
  • External Organisations

Training & Support

We will provide induction training to assist you as a new community representative and offer ongoing support during your term of appointment.

Remuneration

This is a voluntary position, there is no remuneration.

How to apply

Apply online to be a community representative

Contact us with any questions you have sakennedy@ssc.nsw.gov.au or by phone on 9710 0956.