Manager - Programs and Vocational StudiesBranch: Exams, Certification and TestingDivision: School Curriculum and StandardsSalary: Level 8, $151,827 - $164,428 per annum (pro-rata) (PSCA 2024)This is a permanent full-time position commencing ASAPThe Examinations, Certification and Testing (ECT) Directorate is responsible for coordinating key assessment activities across Western Australia. This includes the logistics for the delivery of Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) course examinations, Externally Set Tasks (EST), the National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN), and the Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessment (OLNA). The Directorate designs, develops, and analyses tests, maintains strategies to acknowledge student performance, and manages the moderation of external assessments for Years 11 and 12. It ensures the integrity, collection, analysis, and reporting of data within required timelines, maintains a strong interface between schools and the School Curriculum and Standards Authority (the Authority) for data transfer, and oversees all reporting requirements. The Directorate is also responsible for the delivery of initiatives including the Authority's international education program and recognition of vocational education and training, and externally developed programs which may contribute to the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE).The RoleIn this leadership position, you will provide strategic direction in the development of policies and procedures for vocational education and training and externally developed programs contributing to WACE achievement. The role will also manage quality assurance processes, oversee related communications strategies, and ensure effective reporting through the Authority's Program Governance processes. You will also be responsible for developing financial plans, managing budgets, monitoring project milestones, and implementing risk mitigation and continuous improvement strategies.The successful applicant will bring strong strategic leadership skills, with a focus on collaboration across school systems, universities, and training organisations to support the sharing and development of ideas. You will manage cultural change initiatives, build staff capability, and oversee performance and leave management in line with public sector standards. In addition, you will be responsible for providing high-level advice and executive support to key stakeholders, including the Minister for Education, the Board of the Authority, and executive. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated leader to contribute to shaping programs and initiatives that support education outcomes across Western Australia.Professional BenefitsWe are conveniently located in Canningtonand our employees enjoy a range of benefits which include:11.5% employer contributed superannuation, increasing to 12% by July 2025.Flexible working arrangements are genuinely considered.Generous leave entitlements including annual, personal, long service and parental leaveProfessional development opportunities and study leave/assistanceAccess to salary packaging (in accordance with relevant industrial instruments)Want to know more?Full details of the role, selection criteria and training requirements are listed in the attached Job Description Form (JDF).For more information about this opportunity, please contact Mr Roshan Perera, Assistant Executive Director, Examinations, Certification and Testing on or emailing We are committed to an inclusive and culturally responsive workforce reflecting the diversity in our workplaces and the Western Australian community. We welcome and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, young people, people of diverse sexualities and genders, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident or have a valid visa with relevant work rights for the term of the appointment.consent to a National Criminal History Check with the Department's Screening Unit.obtain or hold a current Working with Children CheckMore information about employment eligibility can be found on our website and in the attached Job Description Form (JDF).Application InstructionsApply online in two easy steps:Step 1: Select Apply for JobComplete the online application form, including details of two (2) work related referees, preferably one being your current line manager.Your application should include:A CV of up to four (4)pages outlining your employment history and professional learning summary relevant to this positionA three (3)page statement a ddressing the following selection criteria as outlined in the attached JDF:Implements and manages strategytranslates strategy into operational goals and creates a shared sense of purpose within the business unitengages others in the strategic direction of the work area, encourages their contribution, and communicates expected outcomesconsiders the ramifications of a wide range of issues, anticipates priorities and develops long term plans for the work areaunderstands objective, critical analysis and distils the core issues.Achieves resultsevaluates ongoing project and program performance and identifies critical success factorsestablishes clear plans and timeframes for project implementation and outlines specific activitiesstrives to achieve and encourages others to do the samemonitors progress and identifies risks that may impact outcome and adjusts plans as required.Builds productive relationshipsbuilds and sustains relationships with a network of key people internally and externallyrecognises shared agendas and works toward mutually beneficial outcomesbrings people together and encourages input from key stakeholders.Exemplifies personal integrity and self-awarenessacts professionally and impartially at all times and operates within the boundaries of organisational processes and legal and public policy constraintstakes personal responsibility for meeting objectives and progressing work and commits energy and drive to see that goals are achievedpersists and focuses on achieving objectives even in difficult circumstancesCommunicates and influences effectivelyconfidently presents information in a clear, concise and articulate manner and translates information for othersapproaches negotiations with a strong grasp of key issues, having prepared well in advanceanticipates the position of the other party and adapts approach accordinglyencourages the support of relevant stakeholders.It is recommended you have your attachments ready before selecting Apply for Job.Your application must be received before the closing date and time. Late applications will not be accepted.For technical support submitting your application, you can call the Department of Education's Recruitment team on for assistance.Advertised Vacancy Number: DOE967541Applicants assessed as suitable may be considered for similar vacancies that arise in our branch within the next 12 months. This includes circumstances where this position becomes subsequently vacant should the successful applicant decline or vacate the advertised position.The Department applies a four (4) day breach period to this selection process.Applications close: 4.30pm (AWST) on Friday, 16 May 2025