Salary: $138,631 to $185,518 (plus superannuation) Fixed term / Ongoing role: Fixed term to 30 June 2027 Usual hours of work: Full time (flexibility may be available) Usual work location: 121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne (flexibility may be available) The Role The Senior Program Manager, Talent Initiatives is responsible for leading the design and delivery of key workforce and skills programs that address critical industry needs across Victoria's priority sectors. This includes establishing the new Digital Jobs – AI Career Conversion program and supporting delivery of the Digital Jobs and Skills Solutions Partnerships programs, alongside broader industry skills policy initiatives. The role operates in a dynamic, multi-stakeholder environment and requires a capable leader who can manage complex partnerships across industry, training providers and government, while contributing to policy development and driving high-quality program outcomes from concept through to implementation. Main Accountabilities: • Lead the establishment of the Digital Jobs – AI Career Conversion program • Deliver Digital Jobs and Skills Solutions Partnerships programs, including contract and project management in line with DJSIR frameworks • Contribute to industry skills policy development, providing advice on opportunities, risks and emerging trends • Engage with industry, business and government stakeholders to support program delivery and policy initiatives • Prepare high-quality reports, briefings and communications for senior stakeholders and decision makers The Team The position of Senior Program Manager, Talent Initiatives forms a part of the Industry Development, Construction, Manufacturing and Talent Branch within the Industry, Trade and Investment Group. The branch is responsible for delivering the Victorian Government's industry development agenda by designing policies and programs that drive sustainable economic growth and workforce inclusion. It supports strategic industry sectors, builds workforce capability and creates opportunities for businesses and individuals to thrive. About You • Demonstrated experience managing complex programs and contractors, delivering outcomes on time and within budget while managing risks and driving continuous improvement • Strong analytical and conceptual skills with the ability to develop strategies and frameworks addressing workforce and industry skill needs • Proven ability to lead and develop teams, fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture that delivers results Further Information For a confidential discussion, please contact Elise Coughlin, Director, Talent Initiatives on 0429 347 848 and elise.coughlin@ecodev.vic.gov.au. The Department is committed to creating and maintaining a child safe organisation. We have zero tolerance of child abuse and are committed to taking the necessary steps to protect children from harm by adopting a preventative, proactive and participatory approach to child safety in accordance with the Child Safe Standards. Successful candidates will be required to undergo a National Police Records Check prior to commencing employment with the Department. For further information on the position, please refer to the attached position description. Please note: We are committed to inclusive recruitment. If you require an adjustment to participate in any stage of the recruitment process or have a particular requirement to be communicated with by either telephone or email only, please notify the DJSIR Talent Acquisition Team on 0472 875 685, or via email at recruitment@ecodev.vic.gov.au with the position number in the subject line. How to Apply Please click the ‘Apply Now' button. As part of the application process, you will need to provide a copy of your resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria outlined in the position description. Applications close at 23:59pm on 3 May 2026 .