Secretary

Description:

Before applying, please contact Andrew Abbott ( on +61 401 712 953 or aabbott@fishnankivell.com ) to obtain further information about the role.
About the Department of Education
The Department of Education is Victoria's primary body responsible for delivering education services to children and young people across the state. The Department directly provides education through government schools and regulates early childhood services and non-government schools. With a focus on improving learning outcomes for all students, the Department is committed to ensuring equity, access, and excellence across the entire education system.
The Department works with schools, early childhood services, and educational providers to create a cohesive and inclusive education system that supports the development and well-being of every student. By collaborating with a range of stakeholders, including government agencies and the private sector, the Department delivers meaningful educational reforms that directly benefit Victorian communities.
At its core, the Department's vision is to provide a great education for every child and young person, ensuring they have the opportunity to thrive academically and socially. This vision is supported by policies focused on excellence in learning, fostering lifelong learning, and ensuring that all students, no matter their background or circumstances, have the support they need to succeed.
The Role
As the Secretary of the Department of Education, you will serve as the Department's chief executive officer and be responsible for providing strategic direction, overseeing policy development, and ensuring the efficient delivery of education services. You will lead large-scale reforms, collaborate with key stakeholders, and guide the Department's operations to ensure the successful implementation of state educational priorities.
This role involves direct engagement with government ministers, providing policy advice and ensuring the Department's programs and initiatives align with government priorities. You will also be responsible for overseeing the Department's financial management, ensuring resources are used effectively, and driving high standards of accountability and performance.
You will also play a key leadership role within the Victorian Government on whole of government policy, strategic planning and reforms including by participating as a member of the Victorian Secretaries Board, and relevant interdepartmental committees.
The Secretary will play an instrumental role in advancing educational equity and shaping the future of education in Victoria, advocating for policy improvements and creating an inclusive and forward-thinking education system.
Who We're Looking For
We are looking for an outstanding executive leader with a deep passion for education and proven experience in leading complex organisations. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in a senior leadership role, ideally in the education sector or within large-scale service delivery environments, with a strong track record of driving systemic reform and improving outcomes.
Key to your success in this role will be your ability to influence, inspire, and engage a broad range of stakeholders, from senior government leaders to education providers, community organisations, and the private sector. You will need exceptional communication skills to convey complex policy issues clearly and persuasively to a variety of audiences, from government ministers to the wider public.
A strategic thinker, you will have a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, drive cultural change, and lead teams to achieve high-performance outcomes. You must possess strong strategic acumen, understand the government's policy landscape, and be able to navigate challenges effectively. A deep commitment to inclusivity and equity will be essential, as you will be responsible for shaping policies that ensure all Victorian students have access to high-quality education and opportunities for success.
You should be an influential leader with the ability to inspire your team and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation. A strong understanding of government processes, budget management, and educational policy development will be essential, as will the ability to drive continuous improvement in a dynamic and evolving sector.
How to apply
Fish Nankivell is managing the recruitment process for this critical leadership role. To receive a candidate brief, or to arrange a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Andrew Abbott, Partner at Fish Nankivell, on +61 401 712 953 or aabbott@fishnankivell.com
The closing date for applications is 26 May 2025. A concurrent search is being conducted.
To apply, please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, and the contact details of three referees to aabbott@fishnankivell.com.
This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in Victoria and ensuring every student has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
The Department values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about our work, working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the Department website and our Diversity and Inclusion page.
Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person.