Department of Communities and Justice
Reference number 81054-43976963 Occupation Executive Director Work type Full-Time Location Sydney City Salary Information
Closing date 03 March 2026 at 11:59pm
Assistant Commissioner, Work and Education
* Based in Sydney
* Ongoing position available
* Total Remuneration Package starting from: $301,553 to $338,972
Your role The Assistant Commissioner, Work & Education provides strategic leadership of Corrective Services NSW’s (CSNSW) commercial industries, manufacturing operations, inmate‑delivered services, and education and vocational training programs. This senior executive role drives statewide work and education initiatives that equip people in custody with industry‑relevant skills, accredited training and meaningful employment pathways, contributing directly to reducing reoffending and improving reintegration outcomes. You will oversee large‑scale commercial operations, lead staff and inmate training frameworks, and ensure that all programs operate safely, competitively and in line with government standards, industry expectations and CSNSW’s strategic priorities.
What you’ll do As the Assistant Commissioner, Work and Education you will:
* Provide strategic advice to the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner on all aspects of work programs, industries, education services, capability development and commercial operations
* Lead, direct and continuously improve large‑scale manufacturing, service industries and educational programs across correctional sites, ensuring they operate within quality assurance standards and deliver measurable rehabilitative outcomes.
* Oversee accredited vocational and educational training programs that build inmate skills, qualifications and employment readiness.
* Lead the development of new correctional industries and business models that are sustainable, commercially viable and aligned with government priorities—while maintaining neutral competitiveness with community industry sectors.
* Drive innovation and identify new commercial and operational opportunities to expand work programs, create continuous markets and enhance revenue generation.
* Build and maintain strong relationships across government, industry, community organisations, training providers (including TAFE) and peak bodies to support program delivery and minimise competitive conflict.
* Provide strategic procurement leadership, ensuring effective contract and provider management and value‑for‑money outcomes.
* Ensure safety across all Work & Education sites through strong compliance with Work Health & Safety legislation, training, systems and risk controls.
* Lead budget, business planning, workforce deployment and change management activities to support effective state‑wide operations.
* Contribute as a member of the CSNSW Senior Executive to cluster‑wide reform, strategic planning and major investment decisions.
Please click HERE to read more about the role
What we’re looking for
* Senior executive leadership experience across large, dispersed or complex operational, commercial or educational environments.
* Deep understanding of industry operations, manufacturing, service delivery, vocational training, or commercial business management.
* Demonstrated capability in workforce leadership, procurement, contract management and operational performance management.
* Experience driving large‑scale reform, change and culture improvement initiatives.
* Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to collaborate with government, industry, training providers and community partners.
* High‑level analytical, commercial and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to innovate and identify new market opportunities.
* A values‑led executive committed to rehabilitation, safe operations, staff engagement, and supporting reintegration outcomes.
We do work that really matters Corrective Services NSW delivers professional correctional services and programs to reduce reoffending and create safer communities. We manage inmates in custody and supervise offenders in the community, working closely with courts, releasing authorities and partner agencies to support rehabilitation, reintegration and community safety.
Are you ready to join us? Click Apply, attach a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) outlining how you meet the requirements of the role and an up‑to‑date résumé (maximum 5 pages).
Applications close: Tuesday 3 March 2026 at 11:59pm AEDT.
Got a question? If you would benefit from an adjustment during the recruitment process or wish to discuss alternate application methods, please contact: DCJ Senior Executive Recruitment Team on seniorexecutiverecruitment@dcj.nsw.gov.au
Inclusion and Diversity We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve, including people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, women, LGBTIQ+ people and carers.
Other Information A talent pool may be created for future ongoing and temporary roles and is valid for a period of up to 18 months. For more information visit Your recruitment journey on the DCJ website. Please note that interviews are anticipated to take place on 19 and 20 March 2026
Thank you for your interest in this role. We look forward to receiving your application.