Help shape the future of aquatic, fitness and recreation services in Ararat by leading the day-to-day operations of the Ararat Fitness Centre and Council’s outdoor pool network.

This full-time Band 7 role is responsible for the operational management and continuous improvement of Council’s leisure services, with a strong focus on safety, compliance, service quality, community participation and team leadership.

About the role
The Leisure Centre Lead contributes to the planning, development and review of leisure services to ensure they align with Council priorities and community needs.

Working with a high degree of autonomy, the role oversees staff, budgets, operational procedures, service improvements and stakeholder relationships, while providing operational advice on sport, recreation and leisure services.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the Ararat Fitness Centre and Council’s outdoor pool network.
• Lead and support fitness centre staff, including rostering, training and performance management.
• Identify and implement service improvements, participation initiatives and operational efficiencies.
• Prepare, monitor and manage operational budgets within allocated resources.
• Maintain safe, compliant and high-quality services and procedures.
• Support contract and outsourced service management, including performance and compliance monitoring.
• Build strong relationships with community groups, sporting clubs, user groups and service providers.
• Respond to stakeholder issues, feedback and complaints in a timely and professional manner.
• Assist with grant and external funding opportunities.
• Contribute to Emergency Management responsibilities when required.

What we’re looking for
We are seeking an experienced leader with substantial experience in managing leisure, aquatic or community service operations, together with demonstrated success in service planning, financial management and continuous improvement.

The successful applicant will bring strong leadership, sound judgement, excellent communication skills and the ability to foster a positive, customer-focused team culture in a local government or similar service environment.

Qualifications and experience

• Tertiary qualification in sport and recreation management, business or a related field, supported by significant experience.
• Experience in leisure, aquatic or community facility operations.
• Demonstrated experience in team leadership, change management and achieving organisational objectives.
• Experience in Local Government is advantageous.
• Valid Working with Children Check and Police Check.
• Current Level 2 First Aid and CPR certificate.

Additional information
This is a full-time position based at the Ararat Fitness Centre, Ararat, within Council’s Recreation department.

The role reports to the Chief Executive Officer, supervises all Fitness Centre staff, and may include weekend and evening work in accordance with the Ararat Rural City Council Enterprise Agreement – Employees Engaged in Recreation Centres.

How to apply

• For more information, contact Human Resources on (03) 5355 0200.
• Applications (cover letter, resume and response to the key selection criteria) should be emailed to [email protected].
• Applications close: Friday 26 June 2026 at 4.00 pm.