The Cabinet Office
Executive Director, Communities, Justice and National Security
* Are you an experienced leader with significant law reform and public policy expertise, great people leadership and stakeholder management skills and a proven ability to execute strategy?
* Do you enjoy working in a high-profile, fast-paced environment, on a diverse range of emerging issues as well as longer term strategic priorities?
* We're looking for an experienced and resilient leader to join The Cabinet Office, leading policy, strategy, and integrity advice from the heart of government.
The Cabinet Office is seeking applications to fill one ongoing Executive Director, Policy vacancy.
This role will head the Communities, Justice and National Security branch within the Social Policy and Intergovernmental Relations Group.
About The Cabinet Office:
The Cabinet Office (TCO) leads policy, strategy and integrity from the heart of Government.
TCO:
* supports the Premier and Cabinet in their roles as decision-makers with expert policy advice informed by data, evidence, consultation and a focus on the bigger picture.
* coordinates, and at times leads, policy reform to drive the Government's priorities.
* advances NSW's interests at a national level through strategic advice to the Premier and Cabinet on intergovernmental matters.
* upholds Cabinet conventions and good Cabinet practice to support better decision-making, including support for the Secretary in their role as Cabinet Secretary.
* helps the Government deliver its agenda lawfully and effectively through good governance and expert legal advice.
* builds public trust in government by supporting institutional and individual integrity.
TCO is made up of four groups: the Office of General Counsel (OGC), Social Policy and Intergovernmental Relations (SPIR) Energy, Environment and Evidence (EEE) and Economic, Housing and Infrastructure Policy (EHIP).
Within SPIR, the Communities, Justice and National Security Branch leads advice to the Premier and the Cabinet, with a key focus on complex policy and law reforms across justice, law enforcement and national security issues, as well as providing support during crisis and emerging events. The Branch works across both NSW Government and other jurisdictions, including with law enforcement and Commonwealth partner agencies to strengthen community resilience and support effective decision‑making. The Branch has responsibility for a number of key portfolios including Police and Counter-terrorism, Corrections, as well as Family and Community Services.
Learn more about the department and a career at The Cabinet Office.
About the Role
We have an ongoing Executive Director, Policy (Public Service Senior Executive Band 2) senior executive opportunity available leading the Communities, Justice and National Security Branch.
TCO Executive Directors are at the forefront of shaping major policy strategies, progressing complex law reform and leading whole-of-government projects. Join us in driving policy reforms that align with government priorities, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of citizens.
To learn more about the role, please review the role description, Executive Director, Policy.
We're Looking For
All candidates should have:
* extensive experience leading delivery of law reforms, resolving contentious policy issues, and executing complex strategies.
* excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, including the ability to brief, navigate and, collaborate with and influence senior stakeholders.
* demonstrated capabilities in delivering outcomes in the public sector context, including strong knowledge of Cabinet, budget and Parliamentary processes.
* significant experience in people leadership, including fostering innovation, adaptability, and growing team resilience.
* the highest levels of ethical behaviour and integrity.
The following will be highly regarded:
* legal qualifications and/or significant experience with managing the development and passage of legislation and/or development of regulatory functions.
* experience working within justice and/or national security portfolio agencies.
* ability to deliver succinct advice and analysis on complex matters, within limited timeframes and in high pressure environments.
* We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply.
The work you could do:
* Partner with agencies across government to deliver major policy reform.
* Make a significant contribution to the outcomes of the NSW Budget.
* Broker outcomes on high profile and contentious policy areas.
* Engage with stakeholders to provide advice in a dynamic policy environment.
Why Join Us?
* Career Development: Ongoing learning through expert-led sessions, online training, and professional development opportunities
* Wellbeing Support: Access to employee assistance program, fitness passport program, and wellbeing initiatives
* Inclusive Culture: Staff-led networks including Aboriginal Staff Advisory Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Network, and Young Professionals Network
How to apply
Click 'Apply Online' and submit your application including:
* A resume detailing relevant knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 5 pages)
* A cover letter addressing how you meet the requirements of the role (maximum 2 pages)
The successful applicant will be required to undertake pre-employment checks. Successful applicants will also be required to obtain and maintain a National Security Clearance at minimum Negative Vetting 1 level.
Salary: Senior Executive Band 2. Total remuneration package will be confirmed upon offer.
Closing date: 9:59AM, Sunday, 15 February 2026.
Learn more
For enquiries about this opportunity, please contact the hiring manager, Gillian White, Deputy Secretary, Social Policy and Intergovernmental Relations by email:
Our commitment
We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and other diverse communities.
The Cabinet Office acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work and live. We pay respect to Ancestors and Elders past and present. We recognise and learn from the strengths of First Nations peoples of New South Wales and their continuing connection to, and unique cultural and spiritual relationship with, Country.
Additional Information
Reasonable Adjustments: The selection process will include assessment techniques to determine your suitability. You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage by indicating in pre-screening questions, contacting the Talent Team at, or reaching out to the hiring manager.
Talent Pool: A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process. If eligible, you may be contacted for ongoing and temporary opportunities in the same role or grade that become available over an 18-month period.