Deputy Director-General, Digital Innovation

The Department of Education (DoE) is committed to delivering responsive services focused on equity and excellence to Queenslanders and their communities. Its vision is a progressive, high performing education system that realises the potential of every student.

The department delivers across early childhood, schooling and training, guided by objectives of a strong start for children, every student realising their potential, and capable people delivering these outcomes. Its values include integrity, respect and collaboration.

Under the leadership of the Director-General, the department is pursuing a bold transformation agenda, recognising the critical role of digital capability in enabling high-quality teaching, learning and operations across Queensland.

The opportunity

This newly created role reflects the Department's ambition to elevate its digital portfolio and embed innovation at the heart of Queensland's education system. Reporting directly to the Director-General, the Deputy Director-General, Digital Innovation will serve as the Department's most senior digital executive, responsible for leading a bold transformation agenda that redefines how teaching, learning, operations and infrastructure are delivered across the state.

You will oversee a division tasked with embedding digital innovation system-wide, driving strategic investments in ICT, platforms and service delivery. A central focus will be unlocking the full potential of the OneSchool IT system through rapid modernisation and reimagining how it supports teachers, students and administrators alike. At the same time, you will unify an array of digital products into a streamlined, future-ready ecosystem that enhances efficiency, strengthens collaboration and creates a more seamless digital experience across the education system.

As a visible, forward-thinking leader, you will engage confidently with stakeholders including schools, regulators, industry partners and the community. You will play a central role in advancing equity of access, strengthening cyber resilience, and ensuring the safe and effective use of emerging technologies such as AI and immersive platforms to transform learning experiences.

With two direct reports and accountability for more than $350 million in annual ICT expenditure, this is a significant system leadership role on the Executive Leadership Team, one that offers the opportunity to shape the digital future of education in Queensland at scale and with lasting impact.

About you

You are a seasoned executive with a track record of leading large-scale digital or organisational transformation in complex environments. Known for your strategic mindset and ability to deliver outcomes at scale, you bring deep experience in shaping strategy, policy implementation and service delivery across diverse sectors. You are a confident communicator and negotiator who can engage and influence at the highest levels while fostering trust and collaboration across diverse stakeholder groups.

Resilient and forward-looking, you thrive in complexity and ambiguity, anticipating disruption and turning it into opportunity. You demonstrate sound judgement, integrity and governance, yet are not constrained by excessive risk aversion. You make bold and considered decisions that balance innovation with responsibility. A natural leader of people, you inspire and mobilise talent, create inclusive and high-performing cultures, and have a proven record as an agent of change who delivers lasting impact.

How to apply

For a confidential discussion or role related questions, please contact Donna Farrow or Adam Dent of The Orchard Talent Group on or at

To apply, please submit your current CV and a brief cover letter (maximum two pages) outlining your motivation and the skills you would bring to the Department of Education via the link. Please note applicants must have the right to work in Australia.

Applications close 28 September 2025 at 11:55pm

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