Work with one of Queensland's most critical government portfolios Shape science, data and environmental outcomes at scale High impact role supporting government priorities in environmental stewardship, About the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) plays a central role in shaping Queensland’s environmental sustainability, tourism growth, scientific advancement and innovation agenda. The department operates in a high-profile policy and delivery environment, supporting government priorities that influence communities, industry, and economic development across the State. With over 3,100 employees and an annual budget exceeding $1.4 billion, DETSI delivers complex programs and partnerships across government, industry and the community. The Corporate, Performance and Delivery division sits at the centre of this work, ensuring the systems, governance, people and performance frameworks required for successful delivery are aligned and operating effectively across the enterprise. This appointment represents an opportunity to shape how the department delivers its strategic commitments by strengthening enterprise alignment, performance discipline, and organisational capability. About the Role This is a significant executive leadership role at the intersection of science, policy and delivery. The portfolio brings together multidisciplinary capability across coastal and air science, environmental systems, biodiversity, earth observation, social science and digital and information science. Reporting to the Deputy Director-General, Science Division, the Executive Director, Coastal Biodiversity and Information will lead the delivery of high-quality scientific programs and ensures government policy, legislation and planning are informed by robust, contemporary evidence. Working closely with the Executive Director, Water and Catchments, and as a key member of the Science Division Leadership Directorate and Policy Insights and Leadership Sub-Committee, you will: Lead the delivery of multidisciplinary scientific programs that provide timely, high-quality insights to inform environmental policy and decision-making Translate complex scientific data into clear, practical advice for senior decision-makers, including Directors-General, Ministers and Cabinet Build and strengthen strategic partnerships across government, industry and research organisations to enable collaborative, high-impact outcomes Oversee major programs and projects, ensuring strong governance, effective delivery disciplines and continuous improvement at scale Act as an informed purchaser and broker of scientific services, ensuring value, quality and alignment to government priorities, including key legislative commitments Provide strategic leadership of a large, complex business area, driving performance, capability and culture across a workforce of 180 staff and a $58M budget Success in the role will be reflected in the quality, relevance and influence of scientific advice, strengthened integration between science and policy, and enhanced capability to support Queensland’s environmental and natural resource management outcomes. About You You are an accomplished executive leader with experience operating at the intersection of science, policy, and government. You bring a strong understanding of how scientific capability can be translated into practical insights that inform complex decision making in high profile environments. You will demonstrate: Proven executive leadership of large, multidisciplinary scientific or technical portfolios within complex environments Experience delivering science and data programs that directly inform policy, legislation and regulatory outcomes Strong executive judgement, with the ability to translate complex scientific insights into clear, strategic advice Credibility in building and influencing partnerships across government, research, industry and community stakeholders Demonstrated capability in leading large teams and managing significant budgets, with a focus on performance and culture Ability to drive alignment and delivery across complex systems, supported by strong governance and program management disciplines You are comfortable operating in complex, high profile environments, bringing clarity, scientific integrity and strategic influence to ensure government decisions are informed by robust evidence and deliver meaningful outcomes for Queensland communities and the environment. What DETSI Offers DETSI provides a fast paced, diverse and influential portfolio where you can lead meaningful and lasting change. This role offers the scope to deliver outcomes that directly contribute to Queensland’s environmental, economic and community future. This role offers a TFR of between $268,888 – $248, 829 Please visit the detailed candidate page for further information and to apply: > General inquiries to : Confidential inquiries to: Lyndsay Webley, Partner, Luminary, on or via email Applications close: Midnight, Wednesday 29th of April 2026 Luminary is committed to storing and utilising your information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988. For further information regarding this please visit: >
