I am Ruth Neave, an intrinsically motivated professional with a background in Community Services, specialising in leading teams to deliver high-quality services to communities and to foster collaboration among stakeholders. I have directed operations across facilities such as fitness centres, libraries, and theatres, and I have a strong track record in strategic planning, program development, and inclusive community engagement. I am known for turning ideas into practical solutions and for building resilient, well-connected communities. I excel in strategic planning, project management, and stakeholder collaboration, with experience delivering large-scale redevelopment and resilience initiatives for local government. I am committed to continuous improvement, ethical engagement with diverse communities, and responsible resource management to support sustainable growth and cultural development.

Ruth Neave

I am Ruth Neave, an intrinsically motivated professional with a background in Community Services, specialising in leading teams to deliver high-quality services to communities and to foster collaboration among stakeholders. I have directed operations across facilities such as fitness centres, libraries, and theatres, and I have a strong track record in strategic planning, program development, and inclusive community engagement. I am known for turning ideas into practical solutions and for building resilient, well-connected communities. I excel in strategic planning, project management, and stakeholder collaboration, with experience delivering large-scale redevelopment and resilience initiatives for local government. I am committed to continuous improvement, ethical engagement with diverse communities, and responsible resource management to support sustainable growth and cultural development.

Available to hire

I am Ruth Neave, an intrinsically motivated professional with a background in Community Services, specialising in leading teams to deliver high-quality services to communities and to foster collaboration among stakeholders. I have directed operations across facilities such as fitness centres, libraries, and theatres, and I have a strong track record in strategic planning, program development, and inclusive community engagement. I am known for turning ideas into practical solutions and for building resilient, well-connected communities.

I excel in strategic planning, project management, and stakeholder collaboration, with experience delivering large-scale redevelopment and resilience initiatives for local government. I am committed to continuous improvement, ethical engagement with diverse communities, and responsible resource management to support sustainable growth and cultural development.

See more

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Manager, Community and Recreation Services at Liverpool Plains Shire Council
January 1, 2022 - January 1, 2025
Acted as Director of Corporate and Community Services in the Director’s absence, ensuring continuity of leadership and smooth operations across programs and teams. Oversaw operations of community facilities (Fitness Centre, two pools, Early Learning Centre, two libraries, Royal Theatre) and managed a team of 20 permanent staff plus up to 20 casual/seasonal workers. Led the NSW Parliament Inquiry into Public Toilets submission and contributed to the 2024–2026 Inclusion Plan; supported the redevelopment of the Quirindi Aquatic Centre and coordinated the Regional Drought Resilience Plan with Gunnedah Council; served on the State Library of NSW Public Library Consultative Committee.
Economic Development and Tourism Officer at Liverpool Plains Shire Council
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2022
Led the research and preparation of the 2022-2025 Economic Development Strategy; prepared briefs and presentations for councillors, business leaders, and industry stakeholders; secured funding for and delivered events (six outdoor cinema nights); coordinated community engagement to strengthen collaboration and inclusivity; promoted Liverpool Plains Industry events and fostered connections with local businesses and external partners; assisted in promoting and delivering public information sessions and media communications.
Media Coordinator at National Indigenous Fire Workshop (NIFW) – Indigenous Fires Alliance
January 1, 2019 - January 1, 2019
Collaborated with Yorta Yorta Elders and the Indigenous Fires Alliance to ensure media activities were culturally sensitive and respectful. Coordinated the production and distribution of media releases; managed media outreach including radio, print, and broadcast interviews; developed and curated social media content; safeguarded cultural knowledge and complied with protocols to protect sensitive information.
Communications and Community Engagement at Upper Hunter Shire Council
January 1, 2009 - January 1, 2013
Led communications and community engagement initiatives, managed media relations, and supported stakeholder engagement and information dissemination to residents and partner agencies.
Director General’s Office – Communications and Community Engagement at Office of the Director General, Community NSW
January 1, 2008 - January 1, 2009
Provided communications and stakeholder engagement support within NSW government structures, contributing to policy dissemination and community outreach.
Arts Advisor at NSW Arts Minister – Australia Business Arts Foundation
January 1, 2006 - January 1, 2007
Advised on arts policy and program development, supporting arts sector initiatives and partnerships.
National Manager – Skills Development Arts at Upper Hunter
January 1, 2002 - January 1, 2006
Oversaw skills development programs and arts initiatives, coordinating cross-organizational partnerships and program delivery.
Regional Arts Development Officer at Interchange Victoria
January 1, 2000 - January 1, 2001
Supported regional arts development through partnership building, project funding, and program delivery.
Media Coordinator at Indigenous Firesticks Alliance
January 1, 2019 - January 1, 2019
Collaborated with Yorta Yorta Elders and the Indigenous Firesticks Alliance to ensure media activities are culturally sensitive and aligned with traditional guidance. Coordinated the production and distribution of media releases, managed media outreach (radio, print, and broadcast interviews), and developed social media content to promote the National Indigenous Fire Workshop while protecting cultural knowledge and intellectual property.

Education

Master of Social Science (Creative Writing and Intercultural Studies) at University of Newcastle
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2012
Bachelor of Arts (Music and Cultural Studies) at La Trobe University
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2000
Certificate III in Early Childhood Care and Education at International Child Care College
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2020
Certificate IV in New Small Business at Hunter Business Centre
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2019
Master of Social Science (Creative Writing and Intercultural Studies) at University of Newcastle
January 1, 2012 - March 10, 2026
Bachelor of Arts (Music and Cultural Studies) at La Trobe University
January 1, 2000 - March 10, 2026
Certificate III in Early Childhood Care and Education at International Child Care College
January 1, 2020 - March 10, 2026
Certificate IV in New Small Business at Hunter Business Centre
January 1, 2019 - March 10, 2026
Copywriting Essentials at Australian Writers Centre
January 1, 2026 - March 10, 2026
Freelance Writing at Australian Writers Centre
January 1, 2026 - March 10, 2026

Qualifications

Essentials of Engagement (IAP2)
January 1, 2024 - January 6, 2026
The Arts and Dementia
January 1, 2015 - January 6, 2026
Science and Gardening
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2016
Permaculture Design
January 1, 2015 - January 6, 2026
Various Online Webinars and Courses
January 11, 2030 - January 6, 2026
Master of Social Science (Creative Writing and Intercultural Studies)
January 1, 2012 - March 10, 2026
Bachelor of Arts (Music and Cultural Studies)
January 1, 2000 - March 10, 2026
Certificate III in Early Childhood Care and Education
January 1, 2020 - March 10, 2026
Certificate IV in New Small Business
January 1, 2019 - March 10, 2026
Copywriting Essentials
January 1, 2026 - March 10, 2026
Freelance Writing
January 1, 2026 - March 10, 2026

Industry Experience

Education, Government, Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services