Executive Director

Step into a key leadership role where your impact will shape the future for generations to come.

• Oversee a multi-disciplinary division in South Australia managing climate action, the Department's participation in State planning processes, delivery of high-quality departmental corporate services and the State Government's heritage program, while ensuring alignment with government objectives and community needs.
• Collaborate with senior leaders across government, statutory boards, Aboriginal Nations, industry partners and other levels of government to build strong relationships that result in impactful policy development and program implementation.
• Join a values-driven organisation, with a focus on employee well-being, cultural safety, ongoing training and development and delivering to make a real difference.

About the Role:

On behalf of the Department for Environment and Water, a rare opportunity has arisen for an accomplished leader to join as Executive Director, Corporate, Heritage and Climate Action. As a key member of the Department's Executive team, you will be at the forefront of shaping South Australia's response to climate change, heritage management and corporate service excellence, as well as the broader natural resource management objectives of the Department.

The Department for Environment and Water is a respected South Australian public sector employer known for its commitment to sustainable natural resource management, progressive workplace practices and promotion of diversity and inclusion. It provides an ideal environment for teamwork-oriented individuals, with clear career advancement pathways and opportunities to contribute to policy directions and represent South Australia on national and international stages.

This position provides a unique platform to influence policy at state, national and international levels, while fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance within a supportive environment. With direct access to the Chief Executive and Minister, your expertise will help drive government priorities and deliver meaningful outcomes for communities across South Australia.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide strategic direction and operational oversight for the Corporate, Heritage, and Climate Action Division, ensuring alignment with government priorities.
• Advise the Chief Executive and Minister on complex matters related to climate change, state planning policy, heritage management, landscape services and corporate functions.
• Foster a positive work culture by nurturing talent, supporting staff well-being and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Represent the Department in state, national and international forums to advocate for South Australian interests in climate action and heritage preservation.
• Establish partnerships with local communities, Aboriginal Nations, NGOs, industry stakeholders and government agencies to achieve shared goals.
• Ensure compliance with legislation such as the
  Landscape South Australia Act 2019
  and
  Climate Change and Greenhouse Emissions Reduction Act 2007
  and maintain robust governance standards.
• Lead transformational programs supporting election commitments and advancing departmental priorities in planning policy and natural resource management.
• Drive effective communication strategies internally and externally to support policy positioning and incident response requirements.
• Foster a positive work culture by nurturing talent, supporting staff well-being and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Champion workplace health and safety by embedding best practice procedures throughout all operations.

Key requirements:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in fields like business management, natural resource management, science, law, economics or planning, with extensive experience in the public sector or similar environments.
• Proven ability to navigate politically sensitive environments, emphasising collaboration, stakeholder engagement and inclusivity, particularly with First Nations and diverse partners.
• Demonstrated strategic policy and planning skills, balancing immediate operational needs with long-term sustainability goals, while fostering staff development and leading cultural change.
• Strong leadership and advanced negotiation skills in complex political environments, with a focus on strategic thinking, crisis responsiveness, and effective communication for diverse audiences.
• A demonstrated understanding of corporate functions, including people management, finance, ICT systems, communications, governance and workplace safety, with a commitment to best practice governance and organisational resilience.

The Department is committed to flexible working opportunities, professional growth and creating an inclusive workplace where your contributions are valued.

Applications close,
Friday 12th September 2025
.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are encouraged to apply.

To apply, please click "Apply" or contact
Ella Morgan on
or

for a confidential discussion.