Data & AI Privacy and Ethics Manager

Join to apply for the Data & AI Privacy and Ethics Manager role at Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA).

Location: Hybrid - 664 Collins Street, Docklands. Fixed Term/ Full Time position until 12 August 2027.

EPA works to prevent and reduce the harmful effect of pollution and waste on Victoria's environment and people. We work with community, industry and businesses. As the needs of Victorians change, we must be equipped to adapt and respond to a range of factors.

We are a workplace committed to new ways of working, EPA celebrates diversity of people and lifestyles. We offer a wide range of practical options to support both your work and personal life.

Reporting to the Manager, Data Governance, the Data and AI Privacy and Ethics Manager is a senior leadership role responsible for establishing and implementing robust privacy, data protection, data & AI ethics and risk compliance frameworks across EPA Victoria. This role ensures EPA's adherence to applicable privacy laws, including the Victorian Information Privacy Principles under the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014, while also addressing emerging challenges in AI privacy, data security, and ethical risk management. You will lead the development of privacy impact assessments (PIAs), data protection strategies, and AI governance protocols, ensuring that EPA's digital and data initiatives are secure, transparent, and aligned with community expectations. You will regularly report to the Senior Executive Committee on privacy operations, risks, and controls, contributing to EPA's strategic priorities to prevent harm to Victorian communities and the environment from pollution and waste. You will foster a culture of integrity and performance, build partnerships across government, industry, and community, and support EPA's transformation into a modern regulator in a new era of environmental protection.

In this role you will:

• Lead and promote high standards of ethical conduct in the use of AI systems; oversee the integration of privacy-by-design principles into AI initiatives; and ensure the responsible handling of personal and sensitive data in alignment with EPA's privacy obligations and community expectations.
• Oversee and manage the implementation of privacy management initiatives across EPA; drive continuous improvement in privacy strategy and frameworks; develop policies, standards, and processes; and advise on privacy impact assessments and reporting to the Senior Executive Committee.
• Monitor compliance with applicable privacy laws, including the Victorian Information Privacy Principles under the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014; support the development and execution of information sharing agreements; and act as the primary contact for OVIC on privacy matters.
• Provide strategic leadership in data and information security; ensure robust controls are in place to safeguard EPA's digital assets; and work with Legal and IT teams to improve compliance with the Victorian Protective Data Security Standards.

• IAPP Information Privacy Manager/CIPM and CIPT credentials are desirable.
• A minimum of 5 years' experience in Data Governance and privacy compliance, including building privacy management frameworks, reporting to privacy regulators, advising on PIAs, managing data breach response processes and handling privacy requests and complaints.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including building a shared sense of direction, clarifying priorities, and proactively addressing strategic issues impacting the operating environment.
• Ability to systematically analyse evidence/data to inform decisions and provide authoritative advice on complex governance, audit, and risk management matters.

Click the "Apply" button to submit your application. Applications close 11:59pm Sunday, 21 September 2025.

Applicants should submit:

• Cover letter addressing the key selection criteria, motivations, and suitability to the role.
• Resume with two referees. For enquiries, please reach out to careers@epa.vic.gov.au

All prospective employees will undergo a National Criminal Record Check prior to an offer of employment. You must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Preferred candidates may be subject to pre-employment checks including police checks, reference checks and role-related security clearances.

EPA Victoria recognises the value of diversity and strives for a culturally safe and embracing work environment, including engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and Traditional Owners.

We are an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to merit, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. We actively embrace staff of different abilities, orientations, backgrounds, faiths, and genders.