Department for Housing and Urban Development
Job reference: 840491
Location: 5000 - ADELAIDE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

Lead Australia’s most progressive urban renewal agency.

Renewal SA is a national benchmark for urban renewal. In 2023–24 alone, the agency delivered over $400 million in capital works, unlocked more than $330 million in private sector investment, and supported over 2,300 jobs across construction and related industries. It also managed approximately $1 billion in assets on behalf of the State to ensure strategic use of key properties.

With a $2 billion pipeline of developments set to deliver around 3,000 new homes, Renewal SA is reshaping South Australia through projects such as the Southwark Grounds (former West End Brewery), partnerships with the Commonwealth Department of Defence including the Deeper Maintenance and Modification Facility at Penfield, Playford Alive and Bowden housing projects, and the next generation of North Terrace precincts.

Backed by the South Australian Government and a fully funded project agenda, Renewal SA is leading the charge in tackling the need for more housing with innovative, progressive and scalable solutions.

We are seeking a Chief Executive to lead this ambitious agenda. Reporting to the Minister for Housing and Urban Development and the Renewal SA Board, you will:

• Drive delivery of a once-in-a-generation program of housing, infrastructure and precinct development, from affordable housing to landmark urban projects.
• Spearhead innovation in solving the need for more affordable housing by harnessing partnerships, commercial returns and public-purpose outcomes in equal measure.
• Lead with presence through engaging Ministers, the Board, industry, and communities with confidence and authority.
• Inspire culture and cadence by lifting engagement, retention and performance across a talented workforce energised by purpose.

Collaborate across government and industry to unlock enabling infrastructure, accelerate approvals, and strengthen Renewal SA’s standing as a trusted partner.

About You:
You are a proven leader of in urban development, property or infrastructure, within a large and diverse organisation, with the credibility to influence at the highest levels of government and industry. You combine commercial acumen with a deep sense of public purpose, and you thrive in fast-paced environments where innovation, delivery and impact converge. With gravitas, integrity and political nous, you are ready to lead Renewal SA through its next era of transformation.

Why This Role:
South Australia offers clarity of vision and unprecedented investment in housing and urban renewal. Renewal SA sits at the heart of this momentum with a project pipeline that is funded, ambitious and transformative. As Chief Executive, you will lead an organisation recognised as one of Australia’s most innovative and effective urban renewal agencies, delivering solutions to the housing crisis while shaping the State’s communities and economy for decades to come.

Note - this is an Adelaide based executive role. Relocation assistance will be made available for the successful candidate if required.

For a confidential discussion, please contact Tori Best, Managing Partner and Director on 0403268224 or email tbest@fishnankivell.com 

Applications close: 27/04/2026 6:00 PM

Attachments:
- Pre-Employment Declaration.pdf
- Role Description - CE Renewal SA .pdf

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.