Cait Kirby – National Placements Manager
In addition to cyclical operational requests tied to end-of-financial-year processes, Q1 saw a noticeable demand for executive management and specialised skills, likely driven by state-specific Council elections and legislative requirements.
Requests for expertise across corporate services, asset management, executive management and project management remained steady, reaffirming that clients continue to engage CT Management Group for senior-level expertise that builds competency, resilience, and operational effectiveness, while positively impacting community expectations and helping meet regulatory mandates.
Key Skill Set Summary for Q1
- Project Management & Civil Works Coordination
Interim Placement Requests: Senior Project Managers – Recovery, Civil and Capital Works
Drivers: Large-scale capital works, infrastructure rehabilitation, and disaster recovery support
Implication: Clients require Associates who can not only execute but lead complex infrastructure and recovery projects. Experience in disaster recovery funding mechanisms (e.g., DRFA) and qualification in community engagement appeared to be of particular value. - Financial and Procurement Expertise
Interim Placement Requests: CFO, Finance Manager, Finance Business Partner, Senior Procurement Advisors
Drivers: End-of-financial-year activities, budget management, financial reporting and cost-effective procurement strategies
Implication: Clients require support in managing budgets and audits, as well as optimising procurement practices, essential for long-term financial sustainability. - HR Management and Governance Compliance
Interim Placement Requests: Senior Governance Support, HR Management Support
Drivers: A focus on strengthening HR and governance practices to ensure compliance, risk management, and operational efficiency
Implication: Clients are prioritising regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, and operational improvements to meet evolving governance standards and workforce needs. There appears to be a collective sector challenge with not only attracting but retaining Governance specialists particularly in regional Councils. - Asset Management
Interim Placement Requests: Asset Coordinator, Asset Support Specialists
Drivers: Emphasis on long-term asset management, infrastructure renewal, and regulatory compliance
Implication: Evolving asset management legislation is driving the need for sustainable management of public infrastructure, ensuring that clients meet long-term service delivery and financial obligations. - Operational Management Support
Interim Placement Requests: Manager Facilities, Depot Manager
Drivers: Staff retention and operational efficiency
Implication: Operational management expertise is crucial for addressing workforce management challenges and improving operational efficiency, especially for clients facing staffing shortages or undergoing restructuring. - Digital Transformation Initiatives
Interim Placement Requests: IT Project Managers, Business Analysts
Drivers: Digital transformation, IT system upgrades, and data-driven decision making
Implication: Clients are increasingly seeking professionals with IT expertise to oversee technology upgrades, streamline operations, and leverage data for more effective service delivery.