**About The Role** The Deputy Director (ATN) is a senior strategic and operational leadership role within the Australian Technology Networks of Australia Secretariat, responsible for the leadership and performance of the Policy and Program units, in alignment with the strategic priorities set by the Executive Director. This is a fixed term position that will provide whole-of-Secretariat oversight to support the development, implementation and evaluation of agreed strategic initiatives over the next two-years. The Deputy Director acts as the Executive Director's delegate and proxy during periods of absence, at pre-designated events, and as otherwise directed, representing ATN at senior external forums and engagements.A core function of the role is leadership of ATN Universities' government relations strategy. The Deputy Director will build, sustain, and leverage trusted relationships with ministerial offices, central agencies, and senior government stakeholders. This will require a deep expertise in parliamentary, legislative, and machinery-of-government processes, combined with a high degree of political judgement and acuity. This includes the ability to interpret emerging policy signals, internal party dynamics, and decision-making pathways that influence government priorities and outcomes.You are a highly experienced government relations and advocacy specialist, with proven experience particularly at the federal level.Extensive experience in executive leadership, with a proven senior-level track record in Demonstrated ability to operate strategically and autonomously, exercising sound judgement, and providing trusted advice to senior executives and governing bodies.Experience working with or within peak bodies, universities, research organisations, professional services or membership-based organisations.Relevant higher-degree qualification (e.g. political science, public policy, economics, communications, social sciences or related field), or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.Demonstrated people leadership experience, including mentoring and capability development.Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the leadership and oversight of high-quality executive briefs and submissions. Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN) is a national Australian higher education peak body, with a membership of six universities across Australia. ATN has a strong presence both nationally and internationally and in key metropolitan and regional media markets. Established in 1999, ATN undertakes policy, advocacy, public affairs and national media work to benefit the shared interest of our membership of world-class Australian universities, the higher education sector and society more broadly. ATN member universities are Curtin University, Deakin University, RMIT University, The University of Newcastle, and University of Technology Sydney. Swinburn University of Technology joined as an observing member in 2026. ATN is located at the RMIT offices.For further information about this position, please see the Position Description hyperlinked below or contact Jessica Hood via email **Please note, if you are viewing this advert from an external site, please click 'apply' and you will be redirected to RMIT's Jobs website to access the Position Description at the bottom of the page. Due to recent upgrades, position description links may not work on LinkedIn advertisements.**# **Culture**Our Values inspire us, wherever we are in the world, and guide how we live and work together.***Imagination. Integrity. Courage. Passion. Impact. Inclusion.***What unites us is our purpose and our values; they are at the heart of who we are, what we stand for, how we make decisions and connect with each other.Our people make everything at the University possible. We encourage new approaches to work and learning, stimulating change to drive positive impact. RMIT exists to create transformative experiences for our students, getting them ready for life and work. You will be a part of a productive and collaborative team, who values working relationships and outcomes through open and inclusive planning, continuous information sharing and transparent work practices.#J-18808-Ljbffr