Director Infrastructure Management

Executive Level 2 (Veterinarian VO5) EL 2.09 - EL 2.10 - $172,761 - $176,530 per annum plus superannuation
Exports & Veterinary Services Division
Canberra, ACT We're seeking an EL 2 leader to modernise the department's approach in export meat establishments and to future proof our workforce. You'll design national frameworks, coach frontline teams, and drive culture change that lifts compliance and collaboration. If you thrive on complex regulatory delivery and building diverse, capable teams, we'd love to hear from you. Why YOU are important to us and what impact will you have on the Exports and Veterinary Services Division and the departments' goal.
We make sure Australian exports meet international standards through inspections, audits and certifications. Our work helps expand trade by negotiating technical access for food and other products. We also manage quotas under trade agreements and represent Australia in setting global food standards.

We work with industry and international partners to ensure Australia's export systems are trusted and efficient. From meat inspection and halal certification to managing digital export systems and tariff quotas, we support smooth trade operations and uphold high standards that keep Australian products moving into key global markets.

Lead the design, integration and implementation of national/departmental infrastructure, workforce and culture-change initiatives that strengthen DAFF's regulatory assurance in export meat establishments.

This is where you play an important role.
Key responsibilities of Director Infrastructure Management include, but are not limited to:
provide strategic leadership and oversight for national infrastructure in export meat establishments
lead workforce planning initiatives for senior technical staff, ensuring continuity and future capability
drive cultural change to improve communication, emotional intelligence, risk awareness, and collaboration
demonstrate APS Values, resilience, and commitment to action. Ensure governance, risk management, and assurance processes are embedded in all initiatives and deliverables
engage with internal and external stakeholders to co-design solutions that enhance regulatory outcomes and workforce resilience Please note:
This recruitment process will initially be used to fill one ongoing (permanent) vacancy in the section. The merit pool established through this selection process, which is valid for a period of eighteen months from the date the vacancy was advertised in the Public Service Gazette, may also be used to fill future ongoing vacancies in the branch where the duties are of a similar nature. Our ideal candidate will have:
demonstrated understanding of Australian animal production systems and veterinary science (including pathology, microbiology, public health, and livestock welfare)
extensive understanding of animal welfare principles and regulatory frameworks within export supply chains
proven experience in workforce planning, role design, and capability development in technical or regulatory environments
demonstrated ability to effectively manage interpersonal relationships with respect and to communicate with influence with internal and external stakeholders
demonstrated ability to lead complex change programs and influence organisational culture
experience in stakeholder engagement and negotiation across diverse internal and external groups
strong background in governance, risk management, and assurance practices
exhibits accountability, professional integrity and respect consistent with the Department's Values, and the APS Code of Conduct
translates strategy into operational goals and anticipates future priorities
builds organisational capability, steers change, and ensures delivery of intended outcomes
fosters collaboration, values diversity, and mentors staff
demonstrates resilience, professionalism, and commitment to action
negotiates persuasively and tailor communication to diverse audiences. The successful candidate:
must hold and maintain a valid Australian motor vehicle drivers' licence,
may be required to perform occasional out-of-hours and weekend work,
must wear an official uniform supplied by the department, including during field operations (as applicable), in accordance with the department's uniform policy Mandatory Qualifications:
This position requires you to hold a Relevant tertiary qualification in veterinary science, animal science, agricultural science, compliance/audit, regulation or related discipline.
Additional Requirements:
Certifications in auditing, change management, or program management (desirable),
Must note that they will be required to undergo a pre-employment medical examination which will include Q-Fever tests and that Q-Fever immunisation will be required where immunity cannot be established Vet Paths
The Australian Public Service (APS) values the unique skills, perspectives, and experiences that veterans gain during their Australian Defence Force (ADF) employment and encourage veterans to apply. Support may be available to veterans transitioning to meaningful APS careers through participation in Vet Paths, which offers veterans an opportunity to participate in a six-month program offering formal learning and development, career mentoring and activities for wellness and peer support. More information can be found here.
For additional information, please read the Job Description below.

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