The Deputy Chief Executive Officer is a senior executive leadership role offering a unique opportunity to shape and advance a contemporary, collaborative, and client-focused approach to the higher education and research sector and help shape the Australian research landscape. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the DCEO will provide strategic, high-level leadership to foster a positive organisational culture and support ongoing reform. The role requires a dynamic leader capable of guiding senior managers and offering authoritative advice on public sector operations and strategic matters. The key duties of the position include • Providing strategic leadership to support the delivery of the Australian Research Council's (ARC) mission, through effective engagement with universities, government agencies, and internal stakeholders. • Leading workplace practices that align and uphold the values and leadership behaviours of the Australian Public Service (APS). • Provide authoritative and strategic advice to the CEO, the Executive team, and external stakeholders on complex policy, operational, and organisational matters. • Lead the development and implementation of major organisational strategies, reforms, and initiatives that support the ARC's strategic objectives and government priorities. • Oversee the performance and delivery of key business areas, ensuring alignment with whole-of-government frameworks and the ARC's corporate plan. • Drive excellence in governance, financial stewardship, and risk management across the organisation. • Cultivate strong relationships with senior officials across government, academia, and industry to influence policy and promote the ARC's strategic interests. • Represent the ARC in high-level negotiations, intergovernmental forums, and public engagements, both nationally and internationally. • Promote and model APS values, ethical leadership, and inclusive workplace practices, ensuring a high-performing and respectful organisational culture. The Candidate We are seeking a dynamic and accomplished senior executive who brings strategic agility, innovation, and a deep understanding of the Australian Public Service and the political, social, and organisational context in which the ARC operates. The successful candidate will be a forward-thinking leader with a demonstrated ability to navigate complex environments and influence outcomes at the highest levels of government. The ideal candidate will possess: Extensive Executive Experience: A proven track record of leading complex government branches or teams, with demonstrated success in delivering strategic outcomes and driving organisational performance. Government and Sector Engagement: Strong networks across government and the research or higher education sectors, with extensive experience engaging with senior officials, Ministers, and key stakeholders to shape policy and program delivery. Strategic and Operational Leadership: The ability to lead organisational change, guide strategic planning, and manage competing priorities in a dynamic and evolving environment. Capability Building: A commitment to developing organisational capability and responsiveness, including fostering innovation, managing risk effectively, and building high-performing teams. Collaborative Leadership: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and lead others while maintaining productive and respectful working relationships across diverse stakeholder groups. Integrity and Accountability: A high level of personal integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the APS Values, with a sound understanding of government processes, public sector governance, and ethical leadership. This role requires a leader who can think strategically, act decisively, and lead with purpose-someone who can shape the future of the organisation while delivering on its mission and responsibilities with excellence.
