* Full-time ongoing Senior Executive Band 1 role based in NSW (location negotiable)
* TRP commencing from $239,251per annum including superannuation, commensurate with experience
* Build and embed contemporary professional standards and investigation frameworks, driving organisational capability, risk management and a culture of integrity across a diverse, geographically dispersed workforce.
The Opportunity
DPIRD is seeking an accomplished and values‐driven Director, Professional Standards and Investigations to establish and lead the Department's Professional Standards and Investigations Unit.
Reporting to the General Counsel, this senior executive role provides strategic leadership and independent oversight of confidential investigations, professional conduct matters, and integrity frameworks across a large, diverse, and geographically dispersed organisation.
You will be a trusted advisor to executive leadership, ensuring investigations are conducted professionally, fairly, and in line with legislative requirements, best practice, and the highest ethical standards.
In this role, you will:
* Establish, lead and manage the Professional Standards and Investigations Unit, building capability and ensuring the effective delivery of investigation services.
* Oversee complex and sensitive investigations, including matters relating to alleged misconduct, corruption, maladministration, fraud, and public interest disclosures.
* Provide expert, independent advice to the Chief Operating Officer and Departmental Leadership Team on professional conduct and investigation outcomes.
* Manage referrals and information sharing with external agencies such as ICAC, the NSW Ombudsman and NSW Police.
* Ensure contemporary frameworks, policies, and procedures are in place to support integrity, confidentiality, procedural fairness, and risk management.
* Deliver high‐quality reports, briefings, and recommendations to senior executives.
* Identify systemic issues and trends, and drive continuous improvement through policy reform, education, and preventative strategies.
* Foster a culture of integrity, accountability, and respectful behaviour across the Department.
About You
You are a highly credible leader with demonstrated experience leading professional standards, investigations, or regulatory functions within a public sector or similarly complex environment. You bring sound judgment, resilience, and the ability to operate independently in high‐pressure and sensitive circumstances.
You will have:
* Proven extensive experience managing investigations and leading teams undertaking professional standards or misconduct investigations.
* Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Government Sector Employment Act, ICAC Act, Public Interest Disclosures Act, and related frameworks.
* Demonstrated ability to provide strategic, independent advice to senior executives.
* Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
* A commitment to ethical leadership, procedural fairness, and fostering positive workplace culture.
* Certificate IV or Diploma of Government Investigations is desirable (or willingness to obtain shortly after commencement).
Why Join Us?
* Make a meaningful impact by shaping integrity and professional standards across a major NSW government department.
* Lead a specialist function with visibility and influence at the executive level.
* Work flexibly across NSW and contribute to strengthening trust in the public sector.
* Be part of an organisation committed to diversity, inclusion, and regional communities.
Applying is easy!
Please apply via our online portal and submit:
A CV (max. 4 pages)
A cover letter (approx. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.
For More information, please view the Role Description.
For a Confidential discussion about the role, you may contact Kirsten Clayton, General Counsel on or 0461 430 823.
Applications close: 11:55pm Sunday, 24 May 2026.
After applying:
* You'll receive a confirmation email
* We'll review all applications once the ad closes
* If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)
* Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)
* Reference checks will be completed for final candidates
* The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.
* A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months.
About us – together, we are DPIRD
The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.
Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.
The department brings together:
* Local Land Services
* NSW Resources
* Agriculture and Biosecurity
* Fisheries and Forestry
* Regional Development and Delivery.
We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across NSW. With more than 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve. Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.
At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.
DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer
We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.
We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.