Deputy Chief Executive Officer

5 days ago

Perth, Western Australia Davidson Full time $180,000 - $250,000 per year

Deputy Chief Executive, Department of Primary Industries and Regions (SA)

  • Shape South Australia's future prosperity
  • Lead strategy, policy, and delivery across primary industries and regions
  • Drive resilience, sustainability, and prosperity throughout the State

South Australia's primary industries and regions are the backbone of our economy, known for world-renowned agriculture, food, fisheries, forestry and wine including research, development and innovation. At the heart of this sector is the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), a dynamic agency that works across industry, community and government to drive growth, sustainability and resilience.

We are seeking a Deputy Chief Executive to join the Chief Executive and Executive team in one of the state's most strategically significant leadership roles.

This is an opportunity to:

  • Partner directly with the Chief Executive in setting strategic direction and delivering policy outcomes across a broad and evolving portfolio.
  • Represent South Australia at the highest levels from state to national forums, intergovernmental negotiations and industry boards.
  • Provide leadership across designated Divisions, ensuring PIRSA is agile, future-focused and making impact.

We are looking for a leader who combines:

  • Political nous and a proven ability to navigate complex, high-stakes environments.
  • Executive-level experience within state or federal government, with exposure to primary industries or closely regulated sectors.
  • Emergency response and recovery leadership capability - adept at responding to natural disasters, biosecurity risks or industry shocks with composure, foresight and recovery strategy.
  • Credibility and presence to engage Ministers, senior officials, industry leaders and community stakeholders alike.

This role will suit an established Chief Executive ready for a larger platform, or a contemporary executive seeking to step into a Deputy Chief Executive position with breadth, impact and visibility.

If you are motivated by the opportunity to shape the prosperity of South Australia's primary industries and regional communities, and to play a pivotal role on the national stage, we encourage you to apply.

To view Success Profile for this opportunity, please copy and paste the following link into your browser:

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To apply, please click 'apply now' and upload your CV and Cover Letter. For any questions not outlined in the PD and for a confidential discussion, please contact Sam Wallace, Partner Davidson Search and Advisory Adelaide on or email or Ryan Webster, Senior Partner or email

Davidson acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work and live. We are also committed to equal opportunity and strive to promote diversity, inclusion, belonging, flexibility, and accessibility in all that we do.

Should you require assistance in your interactions with us or through a recruitment process, please let us know so we can provide adjustments for you.

Note - this is an Adelaide based executive role.

Applications close on Friday 17 October.

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