Premier's Department

Director Policy, Engagement and Places

You. At the centre of big ideas.

• Lead high-impact innovation policy shaping NSW's future economy
• Build partnerships across government, industry and research sectors
• Ongoing, PSSE Band 1 role, based in Martin Place, Sydney.

About the Role

As Director, Policy, Engagement and Places, you will lead the delivery of innovation policy and programs with a strong focus on policy development, strategic direction, ecosystem engagement and place-based outcomes-strengthening NSW's position as a globally competitive innovation economy. You will drive initiatives that bring together government, industry and research within key hubs to support collaboration, economic growth, and effective engagement across the innovation ecosystem.

You will translate the NSW Innovation Blueprint 2035 and the Tech Central Economic Development Strategy into action, coordinating across agencies and stakeholders to ensure policy intent is realised through practical, high-impact programs. The role requires strong engagement and strategic communications across the innovation ecosystem, building influential partnerships, shaping policy direction, and ensuring initiatives respond to sector needs and emerging opportunities.

You will oversee the design, delivery and evaluation of programs, ensuring strong governance and measurable outcomes. You will drive monitoring and evaluation, using data and insights to improve effectiveness and inform strategic decision-making.

As a senior leader, you will lead and develop a high-performing team, foster a culture of collaboration and accountability, and provide authoritative, evidence-based advice to senior executives and Ministers on high-profile and often sensitive policy matters.

You will join the Fostering Innovation branch within Investment NSW, driving growth through innovation by supporting startups, researchers and businesses to turn ideas into impact through targeted funding and programs.

To learn more about the role please review the Role Description.

We're Looking For

• Strategic Leadership & Policy Development: Demonstrated ability to lead complex, high-profile policy initiatives, translating strategic priorities into actionable programs that deliver whole-of-government outcomes and support innovation growth
• Collaboration and stakeholder influence: Strong ability to build trusted partnerships across government, industry, research organisations and other key ecosystem partners.
• Grants and program management: Demonstrated experience overseeing grant, funding or program delivery processes, including governance, assurance, evaluation, performance monitoring and value for money.
• Executive communication & judgement: Highly developed ability to provide clear, credible and evidence-based advice to senior executives and Ministers, including on sensitive and high-profile matters.
• Delivery, systems & accountability: Proven ability to manage complex programs, systems and processes, risks, resources and competing priorities while maintaining strong financial management, integrity, assurance and outcomes.
• Judgement & Complexity Management: Strong capacity to operate in complex and fast-paced environments, exercising sound judgement, managing risk and responding effectively to sensitive or contentious issues.
• People leadership & culture: A collaborative and inclusive leader who builds high-performing teams and fosters a positive, high-trust culture that supports innovation, capability development and continuous improvement.

We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply.

Why Join Us?

• Flexible Working: Broad range of flexible working arrangements
• Career Development: Ongoing learning through expert-led sessions, online training, and professional development opportunities
• Wellbeing Support: Access to employee assistance program, fitness passport program, and wellbeing initiatives
• Inclusive Culture: Staff-led networks including Aboriginal Staff Advisory Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Network, and Young Professionals Network

How to Apply

Click 'Apply Online' and submit your application including:

• A resume detailing relevant knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 5 pages)
• A cover letter addressing how you meet the requirements of the role (maximum 2 pages)

Closing date: Monday, 13 July 2026 (9:59 AM)

Salary: Senior Executive Band 1. Total remuneration package will be negotiated upon offer.

Hiring Manager: Jaclyn Aldenhoven, Executive Director, Fostering Innovation for recruitment enquiries please contact PC•@premiersdepartment.nsw.gov.au

About the Premier's Department

Connecting to Deliver from the Heart of Government

The Premier's Department leads the state's 430,000 public servants, driving collaboration and the delivery of whole-of-government priorities. Learn more about the department and a career at Premier's Department.

Our Commitment

We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and other diverse communities.

The Premier's Department acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work and live. We pay respect to Ancestors and Elders past and present. We recognise and learn from the strengths of First Nations peoples of New South Wales and their continuing connection to, and unique cultural and spiritual relationship with, Country.

Additional Information

Reasonable Adjustments: The selection process will include assessment techniques to determine your suitability. You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage by indicating in pre-screening questions, contacting the Talent Team at PC•@premiersdepartment.nsw.gov.au, or reaching out to the hiring manager.

Talent Pool: A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process. If eligible, you may be contacted for ongoing and temporary opportunities in the same role or grade that become available over an 18-month period.