director, strategic policy partnerships and reform

Department for Child Protection

Job reference: 703941

Location: ADELAIDE

Job status: Long Term Contract

Eligibility: Open to Everyone

The Department for Child Protection (DCP) plays a key role in the protection of children, young people and their families within South Australia. DCP provides support to vulnerable children and young people, working to keep them safe from abuse and harm, and provide alternative care when living at home is no longer an option. Their vision is for all children and young people to grow up safe, healthy, connected and feeling loved so they reach their full potential.

About the role

DCP is undertaking a significant period of workplace transformation and reform. Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Director, Strategic Policy, Partnerships and Reform provides high-level leadership to shape and inform the future strategies direction of child protection in South Australia. The role is responsible for leading the design, delivery, and evaluation of system-wide policies, strategies, and reforms that improve outcomes for children, young people, and families.

The Director drives evidence-based policy development and ensures alignment with government priorities and oversees the department's contribution to state and national reform agendas. The role builds strong cross-sector partnerships, including with Aboriginal communities, government agencies, non-government organisations, and statutory authorities, to deliver integrated and sustainable solutions. Central to the role is ensuring that the voices of children and young people are embedded in all aspects of policy, programs and service design. The Director leads a multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation, and ensures robust governance, reporting and performance frameworks are in place to support the department's reform agenda.

Key Accountabilities

• Formulate and review child protection strategy, policy and reform initiatives informed by research, data, and evidence.
• Effective stakeholder engagement which facilitates collaboration and strong partnerships with the sector, Aboriginal communities and Minister.
• Champion the voices of children and young people in all policies, services and reforms.
• Conduct research to inform whole-of-system strategic planning and maintain oversight of program initiatives
• Lead the development of strategic programs that drive reform and improve outcomes for children, young people and families.
• Effective resource management, including grants administration, budget oversight, and identification of funding opportunities.
• Provide timely, trusted policy advice to executive and the Minister on emerging issues at both state and national levels.
• Raise awareness of child protection across the broader community.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

About You

We are seeking a dynamic, future-focused leader who can set reform agendas, influence across complex environments, and inspire others to deliver meaningful change. You will bring:

• Extensive leadership experience in the public or community sector, with a proven track record of delivering reform and organisational change.
• Strong ability to initiate major policy initiatives, reform programs, and cross-sector partnerships.
• Deep understanding of government mechanisms, intergovernmental relations, and social policy environments.
• Exceptional interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at the highest levels.
• High-level expertise in project and program management, governance, financial oversight, and evidence-based decision-making.
• Proven commitment to improving outcomes for Aboriginal children and young people, with the ability to embed culturally responsive approaches across policy and practice.

For a visionary leader, this role offers the chance to make a lasting impact, driving innovation, building strong partnerships, and positioning the agency at the forefront of child protection reform. Contact Bec Ramsden on for further information or apply today with a CV and short cover letter.

Applications close COB Friday 31st October 2025

Applications close: 31/10/2025 11:00 PM