Chief People Officer
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine
Fixed Term, Full-Time Position
The Position
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) is embarking on a dynamic new stage of its organisational evolution. The implementation of the new VIFM Act will introduce a new governing Board and facilitate modernisation in areas such as people and culture. The newly created position of Chief People Officer (CPO) will play a pivotal role in supporting the VIFM, shaping the future of the organisation through strategic people leadership.
The CPO will report to the Chief Operating Officer and collaborate with the Director of the Institute to provide strategic leadership in people management, cultural leadership, and industrial relations. Key responsibilities include supporting the transfer of employment powers from the Secretary, Department of Justice and Community Safety to the VIFM Board, and commencing modernisation processes for people and culture functions.
We seek an experienced HR practitioner with senior-level public sector experience. The ideal candidate will possess excellent judgement, strong navigation skills in complex dynamics, and exceptional written and verbal communication skills. They will be adept at leading people through change processes and have a proven track record in building high-performing HR teams, strategic workforce planning, and organisational design.
About the Organisation
The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine serves the community and courts by providing independent forensic pathology, medical, and scientific expertise, ensuring safe convictions and appropriate acquittals. As a statutory agency within the Justice Portfolio of the Victorian Government, we investigate deaths reported to the Coroner, examine alleged offenders, medically assess, treat, and support victims of crime. Our services are complemented by teaching and research, safeguarding evidence in court.
The VIFM also operates the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria (DTBV), providing human tissues to medical specialists and hospitals for transplantation and medical research.
In September 2024, the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine Act 2024 was enacted, strengthening governance arrangements, promoting stakeholder engagement, and embedding training and research as core VIFM functions.