SAES1 Director, Connections and Engagement

SAES1 Director, Connections and Engagement Department for Education

Job reference:

712215

Location:

5007 - HINDMARSH

Job status:

Long Term Contract

Eligibility:

Open to Everyone

Collaborate and Influence The Department for Education is seeking an experienced strategic leader to transform how we connect with students, schools and communities in the role of Director, Connections and Engagement. This role is your opportunity to lead a dynamic team, shape communication and connection strategies and make measurable impact on educational outcomes across the state.

Why Work With Us Every child and young person deserves a great education. We have a strategy that aims to unlock every child’s potential now and into the future, one that in partnership with learners, students, parents, and the wider South Australian community will build a world-leading public education system. One that is equitable and prioritises learning and wellbeing. Together we will make our education system the best it can be. When our children and young people thrive, so do our communities and our state.

About The Role As a member of the Curriculum and Learning executive team the Director, Connections and Engagement will lead a multidimensional team responsible for shaping how Curriculum and Learning directorate engage with our stakeholders and the broader market. The position will drive the development and implementation of our engagement strategy and practices, working collaboratively with leaders across the division to support their engagement planning efforts.

The Director, Connections and Engagement provides leadership for a range of education programs that deliver services directly to sites and students, ensuring that programs operate effectively and meet their educational objectives.

About You

Strong relationship-building skills with demonstrated ability to engage stakeholders and foster collaboration that drives divisional success.

Proven experience delivering flexible, innovative solutions in response to changing circumstances and complex challenges while maintaining alignment with the SA Strategy for Public Education and professional standards.

Ability to establish strategic partnerships internally and externally, building shared purpose and a collaborative, supportive divisional culture.

Committed to creating safe, inclusive work environments with knowledge of Equal Opportunity and Work Health and Safety legislation.

Essential Qualifications And Competencies

An appropriate tertiary qualification including post-graduate qualifications in an appropriate discipline desirable or relevant experience.

Experience leading in a large and complex organisation at an executive level, ensuring the translation of priorities into executed deliverables.

What You Will Get In Return

A three-year executive contract.

Access a multitude of jobs and career growth opportunities within a unique, stimulating and purpose-driven environment.

Be a part of a forward-thinking and dynamic team and enjoy a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Special Conditions The successful applicant is required to gain a Department for Human Services (DHS) working with children check (WWCC) prior to being employed which is required to be renewed every five years before expiry. The incumbent will be required to undertake RRHAN –EC (Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect - Education Care) Facilitator Lead (Masterclass) extended course or the online (Fundamentals) course which will be required to be updated every three years. For all other Special Conditions please refer to the attached Position Description.

Enquiries Enquiries can be directed to Rod Nancarrow, Executive Director, Curriculum and Learning, via 08 8226 1017 or email: Rod.Nancarrow@sa.gov.au

Application Instructions Applications should be made through the IWorkForSA website. Applicants are required to submit a CV and a cover letter, outlining their suitability against the position description. People of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent and/or those who have a disability are strongly encouraged to apply.

Additional Note This is a full-time contract role (1.0 FTE), initial 3-year contract

Applications close 16/01/2026 11:30 PM

Flexibility Statement The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.

Seniority level Director

Employment type Full-time

Job function Business Development and Sales

Industries Government Administration

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