Design Improvement Manager

About this role

• Fixed-term opportunity (until 28 December 2026)
• VPS Grade 5.1 $116,413 - $128,631 plus superannuation  
• Location: Port Melbourne, VIC  
• Hybrid working arrangements available
• Free staff shuttle service from Southern Cross Station to Port Melbourne  

Why join us 
 
At the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) we are not just about elections, we are about enabling all Victorians to actively participate in their democracy. The VEC conducts state and local council elections and is responsible for promoting public awareness and understanding of electoral issues in the Victorian community. Our goal is to be change ready and responsive to legislative changes and community expectations in a dynamic and complex operating environment.  
 
We provide a values driven workplace culture with a passion for excellence and innovation in the services we provide. We offer a supportive environment that encourages professional development and provide opportunities to broaden your experience through internal working groups and committees across VEC branches.  
 
Apply now to make a meaningful contribution to the democratic process.  
 
About this opportunity 
 
Reporting directly to Senior Manager, Design, the Design Improvement Manager leads VEC's design improvement team within Design and Production. The role overseas the VEC brand identity and the continuous design improvement of key election material including, ballot material, instructional products, advertising and other marketing and communication products that support the delivery of election activities across Victoria. 
 
About the team 
The Event Strategy and Delivery (ESD) portfolio is responsible for planning and delivering election operations for State, local government and fee-for service elections. Design and Production sit within the Program Delivery function and support the delivery of accurate, accessible and high-quality election materials and publications.  
 
A day in the life of the Design Improvement Manager 
You will be at the centre of design improvement for election operations, acting as the VEC brand custodian and playing a key role in the creative uplift and delivery of election materials. Using strong human-centred design practices, you will collaborate with production teams and stakeholders to translate legislative requirements, production constraints, and customer needs into clear design solutions that enhance efficiency, user experience, and brand integrity. 

You will navigate complexity with ease, anticipate issues early, and bring a calm, practical approach to coordinating workflows—guiding and supporting your team to deliver professional, branded, and compliant outputs during high-pressure election cycles.

About you 

• Demonstrating proven experience in creative leadership in fast-paced, highly complex environments, brand management, design innovation, standardisation and workflow systems, that ensure consistent, high-quality outputs.
• Communicate confidently, clearly, and with purpose, both within your team and cross-functionally to translate business requirements into scalable, branded design outputs.
• Implementing human-centered design principles including the Double-Diamond to problem-solve and communicate clear design solutions grounded on design best-practice and product research.
• Adaptable and solutions-focused, with the ability to anticipate challenges, resolve issues early, and maintain quality and continuity across competing priorities.
• Passionate about contributing to a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team environment.
• A commitment to the VEC's core values. 

How to apply 
To be considered, applicants must complete the online application form and submit a current CV, a separate portfolio, and written responses addressing Key Selection Criteria 6.1, 6.6, and 6.9. 

Note that VEC can only accept applications lodged via the apply button which leads to the Victorian Government Careers log in and application process via Careers Vic.  
 
Applications close at 11:59pm on Friday 19 June 2026 
 
Diversity and inclusion 
We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities and culturally and linguistically diverse people to apply.  
We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our workplaces with the people we employ, and at the ballot box with the people we serve. We aim to create a workplace that is inclusive, equitable, and safe for all.  
We understand that candidates may need adjustments in the recruitment process and/or workplace. For any questions or request for accommodations, please e-mail Peoplemailbox@vec.vic.gov.au 
 
Pre-employment checks 
Successful applicants will be required to satisfy character clearance requirements including, but not limited to, Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) and working with children check. 
In accordance with Section 17A of the Electoral Act 2002, VEC may ask applicants to disclose specific political activities that could compromise the perceived independence of the organisation. Learn more about disclosing political activities. 
 
VEC contact details 
For further information please contact Debbie Ferris, Senior Manager, Design via debbie.ferris@vec.vic.gov.au