- 35 hours per week,
- Full-time Ongoing opportunity
- Location: Sydney or Regional NSW, with hybrid working options
- Clerk Grade 11/12 | Salary from $149,739 to $173,174 plus super and leave loading
About the role
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is seeking an experienced Principal Policy Officer to lead strategic policy and reform projects across the portfolio and respond to key reforms across Government.
In this role, you will provide high-quality policy leadership, advice and analysis on complex issues impacting primary industries and regional economies across NSW. You will work closely with senior executives, Ministerial offices, internal teams, other government agencies and external stakeholders to develop evidence-based policy options and positions.
You will also lead a small team of policy professionals, support a collaborative and delivery-focused culture while managing complex policy and Cabinet processes.
We are looking for an individual who can:
- Lead analysis and review of complex policy issues - identifying risks, emerging issues and practical solutions.
- Develop evidence-based policy options, strategies and advice to support senior executives and Ministerial decision-making.
- Build strong relationships across the department and government to support policy and reform outcomes.
- Lead, manage and develop a small team, fostering a positive culture of collaboration, professionalism and delivery.
- Manage competing priorities, tight timeframes and sensitive issues with sound judgement and resilience.
About You
To be successful in this role, our ideal candidate will have:
- Extensive experience leading the development of policy options, strategies and advice, ideally within a government or complex stakeholder environment
- Strong knowledge of Cabinet and parliamentary processes
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare high-quality briefs, submissions and policy advice
- Strong stakeholder engagement, influencing and negotiation skills
- Experience leading, managing or mentoring staff to deliver high-quality work.
Relevant tertiary qualifications or equivalent relevant professional experience and training will also be highly regarded.
Applying for the role
Apply online by submitting a current resume, maximum 3 pages, and a brief cover letter, maximum 2 pages, that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.
A downloadable copy of the Role Description is linked for your reference.
Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact:
Alex King, Director Policy and Cabinet, Policy Reform & Evidence, [email protected]
Closing Date: 11:55pm Sunday, 12 July
What to expect next
Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an email confirmation. After the advertisement closes, all applications will be reviewed by the hiring manager and selection panel. If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview, which may be held in person, by phone or by video.
You may also be asked to complete role-related tasks, such as a written assessment, skills test or psychometric assessment.
Reference checks will be conducted for candidates progressing to the final stages.
The successful applicant may also be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and other relevant checks as part of the recruitment process.
If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist.
Send an email to [email protected] or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.
About Us
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is dedicated to growing primary industries and supporting regional economic development to deliver long-term benefits to NSW. Our focus is to protect, support and develop our primary industries, mining sector and regions.
The department brings together Agriculture and Biosecurity; Forestry and Fishing; Local Land Services; NSW Resources; Regional Development and Delivery; the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation; NSW Public Works; and Soil Conservation Service.
The Policy, Reform and Evidence Branch leads cross-cutting policy and reform initiatives underpinned by robust data, analysis and evidence. The branch works with teams across the department to ensure government decisions are informed by evidence, expert advice and stakeholder views.
Why work for us?
We work hard every day to support and grow thriving communities across regional NSW, with a focus on delivering outcomes that will have a positive impact for generations to come.
As part of our team, you will be able to:
- Deliver with impact. You will contribute to important policy and reform priorities that support regional NSW, primary industries and local communities.
- Connect to what matters. You will work with passionate, connected teams and build strong relationships across government, industry and regional communities.
- Live your way. We support flexible working arrangements that help you find the balance that works for you and the team.
Additional Information
A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months.
Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve.
We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds, including but not limited to gender, age, cultural background, disability, religion and sexual orientation, to submit an application. We strive to ensure every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.
Role Description