Deputy Director, Forensic Operations Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ) SES3(L) Coopers Plains This is not a business-as-usual executive role. This is a leadership appointment at a defining moment for forensic science in Queensland. Forensic Science Queensland’s vision is forensic science excellence serving the Queensland justice system . Its purpose is to provide high quality, timely and innovative forensic services that support the integrity of the justice system and the Queensland community. In the current environment of reform, scrutiny and heightened public expectations, delivering on that vision requires decisive, courageous and strategic leadership. Reporting to the Director and forming part of the Strategic Leadership Group, the Deputy Director, Forensic Operations will lead the operational forensic divisions across Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry and Case Review. With responsibility for approximately 196 FTE and oversight of an annual budget of around $32 million, this role sits at the centre of operational performance, scientific integrity and system reform. FSQ is moving through a significant transformation agenda shaped by inquiry findings, government reform commitments and a clear mandate to rebuild trust. The strategic plan sets out priorities across People and Culture, Process Foundation, Infrastructure and Science Innovation. This role will be instrumental in embedding those priorities in day-to-day operations - strengthening quality systems, driving performance discipline, implementing inquiry recommendations, uplifting governance and accountability frameworks and positioning the organisation for long-term sustainability. You will lead reform at scale. That includes ensuring valid and reliable scientific practice, implementing and reinforcing a positive quality culture focused on continuous improvement, and driving timely and efficient service delivery in a high-volume, high-impact environment. It also means building capability - strengthening workforce resilience, improving leadership capability and fostering a culture that is collaborative, transparent and performance-oriented. This is a highly visible executive position operating in a politically sensitive and publicly scrutinised context. The work of FSQ directly impacts victims, investigations and court proceedings. The environment is complex, often confronting and requires leaders who can hold scientific rigour, operational urgency and human impact in equal measure. You will be expected to provide frank, fearless and evidence-based advice on critical and contentious matters, represent FSQ across government and national forums and contribute to rebuilding confidence across the justice system . Success in this role will require a senior forensic science leader with deep contemporary expertise, experience in quality and accreditation frameworks including NATA requirements and a demonstrated ability to lead large, complex service delivery environments through sustained change. You will bring a track record of strengthening systems, managing risk, uplifting culture and driving measurable performance improvement in environments where scrutiny is high and expectations are uncompromising. A Bachelor degree or higher in science, forensic science or a related discipline is mandatory. For leaders who are motivated by reform, driven by integrity and committed to innovation in service of justice, this is a rare opportunity to shape the future of forensic science in Queensland and to contribute meaningfully to restoring public trust. For more information including the Position Description and to apply, please visit https://edenritchie.com.au/deputy-director-forensic-operations/ For further information please contact Justine Eden on 0412156930 or fsq@edenritchie.com.au. Please submit your resume and a short written response outlining how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities and requirements of the role at https://edenritchie.com.au/deputy-director-forensic-operations/ Applications close 9th March 2026
