SES Band 3 - Deputy Chief Executive Officer

SES Band 3 - Deputy Chief Executive Officer The NIAA is looking for an established senior leader with well‑developed organisational and influencing skills to join our Executive as an SES Band 3, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO), in the Policy and Programs portfolio. The DCEO Policy and Programs leads, influences and invests in social, cultural and economic policies and programs that contribute to improving the wellbeing and economic aspirations of First Nations people. It also develops strategies to deliver on the Australian Government’s priorities for First Nations people.

As a senior leader, you will provide strategic direction and authoritative advice to shape and deliver Government priorities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through the Policy and Programs portfolio. You will drive the development of innovative, evidence‑based policies and programs that achieve sustainable outcomes for First Nations communities, particularly in regional and remote Australia. This includes leading national reforms in partnership with jurisdictions, such as remote employment, Indigenous Rangers, land issues, housing and community safety, while fostering co‑design approaches that empower communities and respond to local needs. You will influence whole‑of‑government agendas, build strong relationships across sectors, and ensure the Agency’s work is aligned with broader social and economic objectives, delivering impact at scale through collaboration and high‑quality leadership.

The DCEO reports directly to the CEO and has oversight of 4 groups with staff located across Australia, including metropolitan, regional and remote areas.

We have an ambitious reform agenda ahead of us, so if you want to leave your mark on the public service and contribute to outcomes that have lasting impacts for the Australian people, the NIAA is the place for you.

Our Ideal Candidate We seek a dynamic and energetic leader with excellent influencing and negotiation skills, and an established record working at senior levels on complex policy and program design. As the role involves high‑level senior stakeholder interactions, including with First Nations communities, our ideal candidate will demonstrate skills in communicating with technical and general audiences, be adept at engaging with senior public and private sector stakeholders and be able to build and sustain relationships in a complex environment showing high levels of cultural competency.

You will need the ability to think strategically, have strong business acumen, be resilient, and forward‑looking with strong personal drive and integrity. You will have demonstrated judgement in a complex and sensitive environment balancing risk and opportunities.

You will have the capability to lead a widely distributed team within a fast‑paced, challenging and evolving environment to deliver on a reform agenda that requires an understanding of the opportunities and challenges affecting First Nations peoples. You will have a high‑level ability to communicate effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

You will have demonstrated commitment to and practice of values‑based leadership that inspires, empowers, and drives positive change. You will have experience in leading teams in developing innovative strategies and approaches.

The Secretary’s Charter of Leadership Behaviours sets out the behaviours expected of SES across the APS and apply to senior leadership at the NIAA. The behaviours build on the Integrated Leadership System and APS Leadership Capability Framework. You will demonstrate stewardship by ensuring high performance and sustainability of the Australian Public Service, harnessing experience, diversity and resources to deliver common objectives.

Behaviours and Compliance

Be Dynamic

Be Respectful

Have Integrity

Value Others

Empower People

Work Health and Safety Act 2011 compliance: as the DCEO is considered an Officer under the Act, you must exercise due diligence in complying with its obligations.

Delegations: occupancies require exercising appropriate powers, authority, delegations and discretions under the Public Service Act 1999 and the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013.

What We Offer

Exciting work with real purpose—supporting the aspirations of First Nations Peoples is our driving force. Our work is transformational; you can follow your passion, shape your career and make a difference.

We value our employees— they’re the heart of our Agency. Employees are supported and empowered to build their careers. We are a diverse, inclusive and passionate workforce with an emphasis on continuous cultural learning and tailored professional development.

Strong and trusted relationships: we build partnerships by being authentic, sharing information and giving honest feedback. We collaborate with communities across Australia, all levels of government and many other stakeholders.

Eligibility: you must be an Australian Citizen.

Security clearance: the occupant must obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting Level 2 (Top Secret NV) level clearance, or hold a current clearance of an appropriate level.

Pre‑employment screening: the successful candidate will be assessed through our pre‑employment screening checks, such as an Australian Criminal History Check.

How to Apply Submit an online application through the NIAA Careers Page by

11:30pm 25-Jan-2026 AEDT .

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