About the Role The Project Manager (Principal Advisor, Land Acquisition – Forward Planning Early Childhood) sits within the VSBA's Property Branch and is responsible for supporting the Early Childhood land acquisition program. Reporting to the Manager, the role leads high performing project teams to deliver land acquisition outcomes aligned with departmental strategies and priorities. Key responsibilities for the role include: Leading program management, governance, frameworks, and budget management Identifying and assessing land opportunities (on and off market), including technical and service alignment evaluations Managing stakeholder engagement and coordinating with investigation and delivery teams Developing acquisition strategies, supporting decision-making, and preparing briefings for Ministers Facilitating governance approvals and handover to delivery teams As this is a technical role, property experience is essential. Experience in land acquisition is essential, and experience in compulsory acquisition will be highly regarded. All VSBA staff have a shared responsibility to meet the same service standards outlined in the VSBA Customer Service Charter. Our goal is to make every interaction with the VSBA a positive one for our customers, colleagues and key partners regardless of our individual role or team. This role is fixed term full-time role until 30 June 2027. For more details regarding this position please see attached position description. Attributes The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in managing land and property matters, be experienced in program planning and delivery, be flexible and adaptable, and have well developed communication and written skills. Desirable Qualifications and Experience Essential: Land acquisition experience Highly regarded Compulsory acquisition experience Site feasibility analysis experience Program management experience, including in the construction sector About the Department The department provides a wide range of learning and development support and services. The department provides policy leadership, plans for the future of education in Victoria and leads key cross-sector collaboration. The department plays an important system steward role by providing support, guidance, oversight and assurance across early childhood and school education systems. How to Apply Please click the Apply Now button on this advertisement. Applications should include a cover letter which addresses the key selection criteria (no longer than 2 pages) and resume. Further Information For more details regarding this position please see attached position description. The Department values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about our work, working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the Department website and our Diversity and Inclusion page Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person. Information about the Department of Education's operations and employment conditions can be located at www.education.vic.gov.au. For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Madison Rea, Manager Land Acquisition – Forward Planning (Early Childhood) (madison.rea@education.vic.gov.au). Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and may be subject to other pre-employment checks. Information provided to the Department of Education will be treated in the strictest confidence. Please let us know via phone or email if you require any adjustments to ensure your full participation in the recruitment process or if you need the ad or any attachments in an accessible format (e.g large print) due to any viewing difficulties or other accessibility requirements. Applications close 11:59pm on Friday, 22 May 2026.
