Director, Vocational Education and Training (VET) System Strategy

• Exciting opportunity to lead the design and stewardship of the VET system
• Ensure clear alignment to the core purpose of supporting vocational readiness
• Senior Executive Service Level 1 (SES-1), fixed term up to five 5 years

The Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions (DJSIR) is seeking to appoint an exceptional policy leader who combines intellectual depth, system-thinking and the ability to drive and deliver high-impact reform projects.

This role requires the ability to think beyond individual programs and focus on system architecture — how funding, incentives and policy settings interact to drive behaviour and outcomes. You will bring strong conceptual capability, sound judgement, and the ability to cut through complexity to identify what matters most.

You will be joining the Policy and Strategy Branch (PSB) who lead the system and strategic policy settings of Victoria's VET system so that it delivers high quality outcomes for learners and the Victorian economy. PSB monitors VET system trends and performance and oversees its financial management, working with the Commonwealth, state and territory governments and other stakeholders to influence national reform across Australia's tertiary education system, encompassing both higher education and VET.

Reporting to the Executive Director, Policy and Strategy, you will be comfortable leading high-stakes, ambiguous work and operating at the centre of government decision-making. This includes developing advice for senior executives, Ministers and Cabinet, and navigating contested issues with confidence and clarity. A focus on outcomes is critical — translating strategy into practical reform that improves system performance.

The successful candidate will:

• Be an effective leader of a large team, ensuring effort is directed to the highest-value work
• Excel at clear prioritisation, active direction-setting and a willingness to reshape or stop work that does not align with strategic objectives
• Be motivated by the opportunity to shape systems and drive meaningful reform, rather than managing programs alone.

Further Information

Enquiries about this position should be directed to Teresa Fels, Executive Director, Policy and Strategy, at either Teresa.Fels@ecodev.vic.gov.au or 0427 493 528.

The department is committed to creating and maintaining a child safe organisation. We have zero tolerance of child abuse and are committed to taking the necessary steps to protect children from harm by adopting a preventative, proactive and participatory approach to child safety in accordance with the Child Safe Standards.

Successful candidates will be required to undergo a National Police Records check and Misconduct screening verified by their previous employer prior to commencing employment with the Department. For further information on the position, please refer to the attached position description.

We respect and welcome people of all backgrounds, genders, sexualities, abilities, and cultures.

How to Apply

Please click the ‘Apply Now' button at the bottom of this advertisement. As part of the application process, you will need to include a resume and covering letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria outlined in the Position Description.

Applicants should view the full Position Description attached to this advertisement prior to applying. 

Applications close midnight on 19 May 2026.