Work Type: Fixed-term - Full-time or part-time
Salary: $225,000 - $290,600
Grade: VPS SES1
Occupation: Leadership and management
Location: Flexible
Reference: VG/50821296JULY
Are you a strategic, people-focused leader ready to drive impact at the highest levels of the Victorian Public Service? DEECA is seeking an experienced Director to provide high-level strategic advice, coordination and leadership in direct support of the Secretary – across the full spectrum of corporate activity and government engagement.
About the role:
Reporting directly to the Secretary, the Director, Office of the Secretary is responsible for managing sensitive, critical and complex policy, planning and operational issues on behalf of the Secretary and providing high level advice and secretariat support for all relevant stakeholders.
The Director will provide expert advice and counsel in relation to policy, public administration, governance and operational performance to support the Secretary in their leadership role both within the department, across the Victorian Public Sector and as a member of relevant committees.
Stakeholder engagement is central to this role and the Director will develop and maintain a high performing support team for the Secretary and collective operations of the Executive Board through the facilitation of strong and collaborative networks across the department and Victorian Government.
About you:
To be considered for this position, you will have exceptional communication skills, and the judgement required to manage complex, high profile and sensitive issues as they arise. As an inclusive leader, you will be able to navigate a complex matrix of relationships, demonstrating a proven ability to influence at all levels across the various stakeholder communities. An understanding of the processes and levers that apply to Government will also be critical to your success.
About the organisation
We employ approximately 6,300 staff, including around 600 seasonal staff, across more than 86 locations throughout Victoria, across energy, environment, climate action, water, agriculture, and resources portfolios.
Our challenge is to maintain Victoria's liveability, with a population expected to almost double by 2050, while responding to climate change and protecting our natural environment, infrastructure and heritage for future generations. We take a community-centred approach and involve communities and key stakeholders in decisions and policies that affect them and we collaborate across our portfolios to design and deliver services and programs.
This is a fixed term position available for a period of up to 5 years. The work location for this position is flexible within Victoria with hybrid work arrangements available.
To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.
For further information, please refer to the attached position description or call Natalie Gurney on 0474 863 554 or [email protected].
Applications close at midnight on Tuesday, 15 July 2025.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to:
For more information about the pre-screening requirements for this position, please refer to the position description.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.
A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace
DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.