Overview Lester Blades is pleased to partner with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) in the search and selection for the Executive Director, Biodiversity and Conservation Science. This represents a special opportunity for an outstanding leader to advance scientific excellence and strategic impact in biodiversity conservation across Western Australia. DBCA is the state government department responsible for managing Western Australia’s unique plants, animals, ecosystems and natural landscapes. Biodiversity and Conservation Science (BCS) provides high-quality research, expert advice and innovative solutions that support evidence-based decision-making for the state’s conservation priorities. DBCA is unique in that it is the only state government in Australia to maintain its own comprehensive in-house science function, offering unmatched opportunities to link cutting-edge research with policy and management decisions. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a multidisciplinary division of over 225 staff delivering targeted science programs across terrestrial, marine, estuarine, fire, flora, fauna and ecosystem health in one of the world’s most biologically diverse regions. Join DBCA today as the department builds on remarkable conservation achievements and advances the next phase of biodiversity protection in some of Australia’s most unique ecosystems. This is a chance to shape scientific strategy, influence policy and make a lasting impact on Western Australia’s natural legacy for future generations. About the Role As Executive Director , you will report directly to the Deputy Director General, Science, Strategy and Governance and be a member of the department’s senior executive leadership team. You will develop science strategies and influence policies to support conservation outcomes, land management and community engagement with WA’s natural heritage. The position provides guidance to Ministers, the Director General and senior executives across government, while spearheading innovation and integration within diverse science programs and fostering partnerships with industry, research institutions, community and national stakeholders. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of biodiversity and conservation science, while making a significant contribution to Western Australia’s natural heritage. To be successful, you will demonstrate Exceptional leadership experience in science, research, or conservation environments with proven ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams Strategic thinking and policy influence capabilities, with experience providing high-level advice to government and senior executives Strong stakeholder engagement skills and ability to build partnerships across industry, community, research and government sectors Commitment to driving performance and culture aligned with organisational values and safety leadership requirements Deep understanding of biodiversity, conservation science, or related fields with the ability to translate scientific knowledge into policy and practice DBCA believes that all staff are leaders, irrespective of their role and considers this critical to organisational success. The Department has adopted Leadership Expectations that provide a common understanding of the mindsets and expected behaviours within the agency and broader Public Sector context. The DBCA leadership context for this role is Executive Leader . This is a 5-year, full-time Senior Executive Service (SES) position. The salary is $225,590 per annum plus 12% superannuation and a motor vehicle. Note: Shortlisted applicants may be subject to psychometric testing. The successful applicant will be required to possess or obtain a current (issue date not older than 6 months) and satisfactory National Police Check, and manageable conflict of interests declaration and action plan as part of the pre-employment checks. For further information, please contact Tina Jackson from Lester Blades on (08) 9221 0744 for a preliminary discussion. Alternatively, you can download all relevant information at: https://search.jobs.wa.gov.au/page.php?pageID=160&windowUID=0&AdvertID=388460 Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for an appointment to this position, it is essential to have Australian citizenship, New Zealand citizenship or Australian permanent residency status. Application Instructions : Applications must include a CV, cover letter (maximum 4 pages) addressing the selection criteria and details of two referees (with one being a recent or current manager). Please note that applications for this position close on Thursday, 2 October 2025 at 12.00 noon AWST. For more information on this role visit: Recruitment - Executive Director BCS About Lester Blades Lester Blades is a Western Australian owned executive search firm with local specialisation and international reach. We focus on uncompromising excellence in service to clients in the identification of CEOs, and a range of other senior executive and functional leadership roles. J-18808-Ljbffr
