MANAGER, INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS (IRMA)

Personnel Area: City Planning and Economic Development Services

Branch: 2032 Host City, Global Relations and Economic Partnerships

Duration: Contract – 4 years

Step into a career-defining executive role with Brisbane City Council’s newly formed 2032 Host City, Global Relations and Economic Partnerships (2032 HCGREP) Branch - part of the largest local government in Australia.

Our Host City and Strategic Partnerships, Economic Development, and International Relations and Multicultural Affairs teams are uniting to position Brisbane as a globally connected, innovative city. With deep domestic and international ties, we are building momentum towards the 2032 Games and beyond.

The International Relations and Multicultural Affairs (IRMA) team leads Brisbane City Council’s international strategy, delivering targeted programs that promote trade, attract investment, foster multicultural inclusion, and advance civic partnerships.

We are looking for a strategic and collaborative executive with experience in international relations, trade, or diplomacy. You will bring a strong track record of leading high-performing, cross-cultural teams and delivering outcomes in complex political and global contexts. With sound judgement, exceptional communication skills, and a sharp stakeholder focus, you confidently navigate competing priorities and build trusted relationships. Tertiary qualifications in international business, commerce, marketing or international relations are essential, and proficiency in a second language is highly desirable.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead a multilingual team delivering international programs, projects, and events that drive meaningful economic and social outcomes for Brisbane. You will strengthen trade, investment, and collaboration through the city’s Sister Cities program, manage civic and geopolitical relationships, and respond to global developments with commercial acumen and civic responsibility. Positioned at the forefront of Brisbane’s international engagement, the role is key to enhancing the city’s global profile and advancing nationally aligned outcomes.

• Strategic Leadership: Lead the IRMA team to deliver outcomes aligned with Council’s vision, including international and multicultural programs.
• Culture & Capability: Foster a high-performance, collaborative culture and build team expertise in diplomacy, engagement, and economic development.
• Senior Advice: Provide strategic advice to city leaders, on complex global and multicultural matters.
• Economic Impact: Leverage Sister City relationships and contribute to trade missions to grow Brisbane’s trade, investment, and business links.
• Global Partnerships: Strengthen international and consular relationships to enhance Brisbane’s global profile and long-term international value.
• Community Engagement: Work with multicultural communities and leaders to promote inclusion, address challenges, and build social cohesion.
• Program Oversight: Deliver multicultural programs, international visits, and initiatives that celebrate diversity and promote Brisbane as an inclusive, globally connected city.
• Events & Governance: Support flagship events like APCS and Mayor’s Forum (Expo City Dubai – October 2025) and ensure governance, compliance, and performance excellence across all activities.

Due to the requirements of this role a criminal history and business checks will be undertaken on preferred applicants. A criminal history does not necessarily preclude an applicant from appointment.

Please consider the full position descriptions, and tailor your cover letter and resume to outline your suitability.

To apply online, please click on the appropriate link. Alternatively, for a confidential discussion or further information, please contact Nicola Martufi, Talent Partner on 07 3178 8837.

Brisbane City Council is a multi-award winning accessible and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from people from all diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Closing Date: Wednesday 13 August 2025 at 11.55pm AEST