• Rare opportunity for an experienced Senior Executive to drive and influence outcomes through research, policy and regulation
• Full time permanent role based in any major DPI office across NSW
• TRP starting from $298K including superannuation, commensurate with experience

Are you an Executive with extensive experience in managing a large, diverse program or business at the highest level? This is an exciting opportunity to head up the Biosecurity & Food Safety branch within NSW Department of Primary Industries.

About us

DPI Biosecurity & Food Safety is a branch within Department of Primary Industries (DPI). The primary objective of the NSW Biosecurity & Food Safety Branch is to deliver effective, science-based management to meet the NSW Government’s goals and community expectations relating to both the effective management and risk minimization of biosecurity threats to NSW as well as food safety throughout the food industry from primary production to point of sale.

The branch ensures an evidence-based approach to policy, and compliance with community standards for animal welfare in production and exhibited animals. DPI Biosecurity & Food Safety also provides regional engagement and coordination in response to natural disasters impacting primary industries.

About the role

As the Deputy Director General (DDG) you will the lead the biosecurity strategy and risk minimisation for NSW so as to protect and grow market access and the economy. You will also drive policy development and regulatory compliance for the food industry, ensuring biohazard containment, food safety and animal welfare.

As DDG Biosecurity & Food Safety, you will focus on building strategic partnerships across the DPI Executive and stakeholders in the NSW Government. The DDG spearheads the strategic direction of our stakeholder education and is accountable for delivering critical support, expert advice and proposed courses of action to the Director General, the Secretary and the Minister for current, contentious or emerging issues and developments.

This role is responsible for an annual Opex budget of $60 million and plays a key role in the leadership team of the Department of Primary Industries. DPI offers office locations across NSW, both metropolitan and regional. As the DDG Biosecurity & Food Safety you would be able to effectively perform this role from any of DPI’s major office locations.

For more information about this exciting opportunity, click here to view the role description.

About you

You will be a high performing executive with a track record of identifying and delivering on strategic objectives in a complex and multi-dimensional environment. Your leadership style sees you engage and inspire your staff and stakeholders alike. You will hold values consistent with those of the NSW Public Sector; integrity, trust, service and accountability which also inform your commitment to delivering for the people of NSW.

Additionally, you will be experienced in managing complex relationships with a multitude of diverse stakeholders, establishing strong and long-lasting partnerships with relevant NSW government agencies, cross-jurisdiction agencies and the private sector.  Your demonstrated experience in collaborating with senior stakeholders will ensure you can manage changing priorities within a high-pressure environment.

We’re looking for a highly experienced leader with a scientifically sound background to ensure the research, education and advisory functions promote best practice, raise community and industry awareness. You will possess the ability to lead a team that aligns and delivers to DPI’s mandate and strategic priorities.

You are a results-driven professional seeking to exercise your highly developed people skills and rigorous judgement to lead legislative reforms, drive the strategic direction and functional oversight, mentor staff and build internal capability, and ensure adequate resources to meet outcomes.

To apply, please submit an updated CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and capabilities. To be considered you must submit an application via the online application process.

For further information, please contact Amanda Paterson, Manager Talent Acquisition at amanda.paterson@dpie.nsw.gov.au or 0437 248 701.

Applications close on Monday 30 March at 11:55pm.

A talent pool may be created from this recruitment action for ongoing and temporary roles of the same standard that may become available for filling over the next twelve months

Our commitment to flexible working
The Department of Planning, Industry & Environment is committed to ensuring the sector reflects the NSW community it serves. We support an inclusive workplace where staff have access to opportunities and resources at all levels, enabling our team members to drive innovation, productivity and delivery of high-quality services. We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements and encourage our people to explore new ways of working - including part-time, job-share or working from different locations. Everyone can ask about it.

Our commitment to Diversity
The Planning, Industry and Environment Cluster strives to be an inclusive workplace for all people. We recognise that we operate in a diverse community and welcome and encourage applications from all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse groups, the LGBTIQ+ community, veterans, refugees and people with disability.