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Executive Director
Office of the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage; Environment and Heritage Policy and Programs; Brisbane City
Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders
This rare executive opportunity will lead Queensland's approach to protecting the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage Areas.
As Executive Director, you will:
• Lead Queensland's whole-of-government Reef and World Heritage agenda.
• Build influential partnerships across government, Traditional Owners, industry and communities.
• Provide strategic leadership on nationally significant programs and environmental priorities.
We're seeking an accomplished executive with exceptional stakeholder engagement, influence and leadership experience.
Job details
| Position status | Contract |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible-full-time,Full-time |
| Occupational group | Executive |
| Classification | SES3(Lw) |
| Workplace Location | Brisbane Inner City,Cairns region,Flexible |
| Job ad reference | QLD/695876/26 |
| Closing date | 04-Aug-2026 |
| Job duration | up to 5 years with possible extension |
| Contact person | Elena Ryan, Luminary Partners |
| Contact details | Ph: 0422 584 231 Access the National Relay Service |
About the Role
A rare executive opportunity to help shape the future of one of the world's most significant natural assets. The Great Barrier Reef is a globally recognised World Heritage Area that supports biodiversity, rich cultural heritage, regional communities and a strong economy. Protecting it, requires visionary leadership, collaboration and effective delivery.
Reporting to the Deputy Director-General, EHPP, you will lead Queensland's implementation of key Reef and World Heritage strategies, including the Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan and Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy. You will oversee the governance and delivery of high-profile programs, while building strong partnerships across government, Traditional Owners, industry, research organisations, community groups and Commonwealth agencies. Leading a highly capable team, you will drive strategic outcomes through sound governance, collaborative leadership and a focus on delivering lasting environmental benefits.
As Executive Director, you will:
- Provide strategic leadership for Queensland's Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage agenda, delivering complex whole-of-government priorities.
- Lead the governance, coordination and delivery of major programs, ensuring alignment with government priorities and Ministerial expectations.
- Build and maintain strong relationships across government, Traditional Owners, Commonwealth agencies, industry, research organisations and communities.
- Foster collaborative partnerships that drive shared outcomes and support effective stewardship of World Heritage assets.
- Provide strategic advice to the Minister, Director-General and senior executives on complex policy, environmental and program issues.
- Represent Queensland in high-level forums, committees and national partnerships relating to the Reef and World Heritage.
- Lead a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, accountability and continuous improvement.
- Oversee program governance, performance, reporting and risk management across a diverse, high-profile portfolio.
We're Looking For
We are seeking an accomplished executive with a proven ability to lead complex programs and deliver strategic outcomes through strong partnerships across government and diverse stakeholder groups. You are a credible and influential leader, skilled at navigating complexity, building consensus and translating strategy into results. An exceptional communicator, you engage confidently with Ministers, senior executives, Traditional Owners, industry and communities. With experience leading high-performing teams, you foster collaboration, resilience and accountability. This is a unique opportunity to help protect the Great Barrier Reef and Queensland's World Heritage Areas, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
Ready to Apply?
We have partnered with Luminary in the search and selection of talent for this process, please visit the candidate page for further information: Luminary Partners
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and offer priority consideration to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people living with disability who meet the minimum requirements. For a confidential discussion or if you need support or adjustments during the recruitment process, contact Elena Ryan on 0422 584 231 or Elena.Ryan@luminarypartners.com.au.
Applications will remain current for a period of 12 months.
Further information
We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.
Please ensure to download any attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.
Documents
Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.
