The Chief of Plant Breeder's Rights (PBR) is responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership to the PBR examination section comprising 15 staff. As part of the core leadership team, the Chief supports the Registrar of PBR (General Manager - POG) and other senior executives in the effective management of the end-to-end processes of the PBR section, to achieve IP Australia's corporate objectives.
To be competitive, you will need to be able to demonstrate strong capabilities in people leadership, stakeholder engagement and strategic thinking, with an ability to apply or quickly build your existing relevant subject knowledge. Knowledge and/or awareness of intellectual property, plant breeding, the agricultural sector and/or a related area is highly desirable.
You will:
* Provide effective administration of PBR in accordance with
Plant Breeder's Rights Act 1994
and International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) standards
* Provide excellent leadership and management to support team performance and the realisation of IP Australia's corporate objectives
* Perform statutory functions of the Deputy Registrar of Plant Breeder's Rights and exercise the appropriate powers, authority and delegations under the Plant Breeder's Rights Act 1994 (Cth)
* Be accountable for high quality customer service and service delivery meeting all performance expectations in a legislative environment
* Drive continuous improvement in practices and processes to maintain alignment with regulatory requirements
* Shape policy, standards, and strategic direction across the PBR landscape, contributing to the effective administration and advancement of intellectual property rights in Australia
* Develop relationships and engage with domestic and international stakeholders, representing IP Australia and on behalf of the General Manager
* Oversee business operations and workflow processes, contribute to workforce planning and optimise resources to support operational needs
* Lead data stewardship, management, and analysis to inform decision-making.
Looking for more information?
For more information about this role, including the type of person we are looking for, please refer to the Candidate Kit available by clicking the 'Apply' button.
Applications close at 11:59pm AEDT on Sunday 23 November 2025.