Job Overview
The NSW Government is seeking a high-calibre leader to drive reform and improvement in child protection and out-of-home services. As Deputy Secretary, Child Protection and Permanency, you will lead a team of Executive Directors to deliver integrated, high-impact services that meet legislative requirements, government priorities, and community needs.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and inspire a team of Executive Directors to develop and implement effective child protection strategies aligned with government priorities.
* Drive strategic reform and innovation to ensure services are evidence-based, effective, and responsive to the needs of children, families, and communities.
* Champion culturally safe and inclusive practices, working in genuine partnership with Aboriginal communities to improve outcomes and reduce inequities.
* Oversee the delivery of safe, stable care pathways—including family preservation, restoration, guardianship, and adoption—that support long-term wellbeing for children and young people.
* Build and maintain strong relationships across government, non-government, and community sectors to enable collaborative, person-centred service delivery and system-wide reform.
Requirements:
* Strategic Leadership: Proven ability to lead large, complex service systems and drive reform aligned with government priorities.
* Expertise in Child Protection: Deep understanding of child protection and out-of-home care, including legislative frameworks and best practice approaches.
* Cultural Responsiveness: Strong commitment to working with Aboriginal communities to improve outcomes.
* Stakeholder Engagement: Establish and maintain collaborative relationships across government, non-government, and other human services organisations.
* High-Level Advisory Skills: Capable of providing advice to Ministers and senior executives on critical issues and risks.
* Operational Excellence: Proven experience managing substantial financial resources, workforce capability, and performance outcomes in high-demand, complex service environments.
* Resilience and Integrity: Demonstrates courage, ethical leadership, and the ability to navigate complex challenges with composure.
* Change Management: Leads reform initiatives and fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
* Inclusive Leadership: Values diversity, promotes staff wellbeing, and builds a positive, high-performing workplace culture.