Lead NSW animal welfare programs and policy and coordinate risk for government priorities.

• Full-time ongoing role
• 35 hours per week
• Location: Orange, other locations by negotiation
• Salary from $145,378 to $168,130 pa + superannuation + leave entitlements (Clerk Grade 11/12)

About the Role

As the Manager Policy and Programs (Animal Welfare), you'll lead the strategic direction of animal welfare in NSW. You will develop and implement evidence-based policies and programs, advise senior leaders, and represent the Department. You'll also build strong stakeholder relationships to drive collaborative outcomes and address emerging issues in a dynamic environment.

What You’ll do

• Plan, develop, and reform evidence-based animal welfare policies and programs.
• Prepare strategic advice, research, and reports for informed decision-making and ministerial support.
• Support strategic planning, embed systems, manage performance, and develop staff.
• Engage in interdepartmental, state, and national committees for strategic animal welfare programs.
• Stay informed on national and international animal welfare issues, identifying reform opportunities.
• Build strong connections to secure support for animal welfare standards.
• Provide advice and reports to the Chief Animal Welfare Officer, Executive, and Minister.

What We’re Looking For

• the exhibited animals, unusual pet and/or wildlife sectors OR, livestock management

• Tertiary qualifications in veterinary or animal science and/or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading animal welfare policy and program development.
• Proven ability to deliver high-level advice and reports on complex issues.
• Excellent skills in building and managing relationships across diverse groups.
• Strong capability in analysing issues and developing strategic solutions.
• Current NSW Drivers Licence with the ability to travel when required.
• Extensive knowledge of and/or experience in

What We Offer
DPIRD an attractive place to build your career. You’ll be part of a team that offers:

• A diverse and inclusive workplace
• Flexible, autonomous work environment
• Competitive pay and conditions
• Professional development
• Health & wellbeing and employee assistance programs.

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

💬 For further information about this vacancy please contact:

Kim Filmer, Chief Animal Welfare Officer

📞 0418 417 048 or

📧 [email protected]

🔗 Click here to view the full role description

👉 How to Apply
Please apply via our online portal and submit:

• ✅ A CV (approx. 4 pages)
• ✅ A cover letter (approx. 1 pages)
  * Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

📅 Applications Close: Thursday 10 July 2025, at 11:55pm

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to [email protected] or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

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)
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric assessment)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates

🔎 The successful applicant in 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.

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.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

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

As a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, DPIRD is dedicated 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 [email protected] or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.