Associate Director, Operations

About us

We create thriving places and connected communities. We bring together transport, planning, land use, precinct and policy functions in a single department to deliver the best outcomes for Victorians. Together with our portfolio agencies, we are responsible for planning, building, operating and maintaining Victoria's transport, planning and land services for use by all. We foster a safe, inclusive and constructive place to work. 
Transport Services is responsible for delivering safe, reliable and accessible transport infrastructure and services to all Victorians. 

This role sits within the Heavy Rail Division, supporting client-side management of the Metro Tunnel PPP and its ongoing operational and maintenance arrangements. 

About the role

The Associate Director, Operations & Maintenance leads the government's strategic and commercial management of the Metro Tunnel Public Private Partnership (PPP), overseeing performance, governance, contractual compliance and relationships with Cross Yarra Partnership (CYP). You will play a critical role in ensuring the 25-year maintenance phase delivers high-quality services, effectively interfaces with train operators and the HCMT PPP, and supports a safe, efficient and integrated network across Melbourne. 

Key Selection Criteria

Success in this role relies on strong senior-level leadership, the ability to manage complex commercial contracts, and sound judgement in politically sensitive environments. You will be experienced in driving high performance, leading teams through ambiguity, influencing stakeholders, and providing authoritative strategic advice. A strong understanding of transport operations, contract management models (particularly PPPs), and senior-level stakeholder engagement is essential to succeed. 

To access the Position Description, please click here.

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate will be collaborative, resilient and adaptable, with the ability to foster constructive partnerships and drive outcomes across diverse internal and external stakeholders. A proactive and inclusive leadership style is essential to thrive in this environment. 

Position accountabilities

Lead commercial and contractual management of the Metro Tunnel PPP, ensuring obligations, risk allocation and compliance are effectively maintained.Oversee operational and maintenance performance, ensuring CYP delivers services to required standards.Lead governance forums and support executive decision-making through high-quality, authoritative advice.Build high-performing teams, drive cultural alignment, and strengthen organisational capability.Engage stakeholders across government and industry to support integrated transport outcomes. 

Qualifications and experience

Demonstrated senior leadership experience with a record of driving high performance.Strong commercial acumen and experience managing complex contracts.Highly developed stakeholder engagement and strategic advisory capability.Knowledge of public transport operations and contract management models.Graduate qualifications in Business, Commerce or related fields are desirable.Understanding of PPP contracting models is desirable.Driver's Licence required. 

Culture & values

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including First Peoples, people with disability, LGBTQIA+ communities, parents, carers, people from culturally diverse backgrounds and veterans. We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive and high-performance culture.

What we offer

At the Department of Transport and Planning, you will contribute to shaping thriving places and connected communities for all Victorians.

Pre-employment checks

All new appointments to the department will be subject to a National Criminal Records Check, Misconduct Screening, and a Qualification Check where there is a requirement for a mandatory qualification. Information provided to the Department of Transport and Planning will be treated in the strictest confidence consistent with the requirements of the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014.

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position.

Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply.

Non-VPS applicants will be subject to a probation period of six months.

How to apply

Click the 'Apply' button to access our recruitment platform. Please submit your resume and cover letter.
Applications close 11:59pm, Sunday 14th December 2025.

For further information, please contact Mario Del Mastro – Associate Director- Train Franchise Rolling Stock at

Please include both your resume and a cover letter. All applications must be submitted via the online portal, we're unable to accept email or manual submissions.

Important Information:

If you require any adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, or need the advert or attachments in an accessible format (e.g., large print), please contact us by phone or email. We're here to support you.

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