Leader Livestock Efficiency and Sustainability

• Ongoing Full Time, 35 hours per week
• Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations. Preference will be given to candidates based regionally, with a focus on Queanbeyan, Armidale, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour
• Clerk Grade 11/12 – Salary from $149,739 up to $173,174 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading

About the Role

As the Leader Livestock Efficiency and Sustainability, you will lead the strategic research and development program supporting NSW's extensive livestock industries. Your focus will be on driving innovation that enhances productivity, environmental performance, and long-term sustainability.

You'll manage a high-performing team of researchers and technical experts, oversee complex projects and budgets, and foster strong partnerships with industry, government, and research organisations. This role is pivotal in shaping the future of livestock systems in NSW through evidence-based insights and collaborative leadership.

Success in this role means delivering impactful R&D outcomes, building trusted relationships, and influencing policy and practice to support a more efficient and sustainable livestock sector.

What You'll Bring

To thrive in this role, you'll bring:

• A degree or postgraduate qualification in agriculture or a science-based discipline.
• Proven leadership experience in guiding high-performing R&D teams.
• Strong capability in managing complex research portfolios, including financial and contractual oversight.
• A track record of building collaborative relationships with stakeholders and research partners.
• Expertise in providing high-level technical and policy advice on livestock efficiency and sustainability.
• Flexibility and willingness to travel as needed to support program delivery and stakeholder engagement.

For further information about the role please contact Fay Haynes on or email You can also view the role description here.

How to Apply

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

A CV (approx. 4 pages)

A cover letter (approx. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

Applications close: Tuesday 4 November 2025 at 11:55pm

What to Expect Next

After applying:

• You'll receive a confirmation email
• We'll review all applications once the ad closes
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months.

About us – together, we are DPIRD

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.

The department brings together:

• Local Land Services
• NSW Resources
• Agriculture and Biosecurity
• Fisheries and Forestry
• Regional Development and Delivery.

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. With nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.