Job search
Deputy Director-General Science and Innovation
Science; Dutton Park
Are you passionate about strengthening and delivering government, industry and community outcomes through science and innovation.
Are you excited to lead Queensland's integrated science and innovation agenda to deliver impact for the economy, environment and community. This is a unique opportunity to lead a newly integrated division with statewide influence and significance.
As Deputy Director-General, you will:
• Strengthen government, industry and community outcomes through science and innovation leadership and scientific delivery
• Lead and oversee the provision of trusted science across Government
• Deliver actions from key legislation and strategies that contribute positively to the wellbeing of Queenslanders, the environment and the Queensland economy.
Job details
| Position status | Contract |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible-full-time,Full-time |
| Occupational group | Executive |
| Classification | SES4 |
| Workplace Location | Brisbane Inner City,Brisbane - South |
| Job ad reference | QLD/702143/26 |
| Closing date | 08-Oct-2026 |
| Job duration | up to 5 years with possible extension |
| Contact person | Russell Fairbanks / Elena Ryan |
| Contact details | Ph: 0457 667 765 (R) / 0422 584 231 (E) Access the National Relay Service |
About the Role
Reporting to the Director-General, the Deputy Director-General, Science and Innovation will lead a substantial and strategically important portfolio.
The Science and Innovation division provides leading-edge science, data, information, and advice and drives and fosters key stakeholder relationships to identify, grow and commercialise innovative ideas.
The role oversees a diverse portfolio spanning scientific monitoring, modelling and data capability; biodiversity, water and catchment science; research partnerships; innovation investment and commercialisation; and strategic engagement across government, universities, industry and the broader innovation ecosystem.
As Deputy Director-General, you will:
- Provide strategic leadership for Queensland's integrated science and innovation agenda, ensuring delivery of complex government priorities and long-term outcomes.
- Drive innovation, research translation and commercialisation initiatives that strengthen Queensland's economy and support emerging industries.
- Foster productive partnerships across government, universities, research organisations, industry, investors and community stakeholders.
- Provide authoritative strategic advice to the Minister, Director-General and Executive Leadership Team on complex policy, investment and service delivery matters.
- Build Queensland's scientific and innovation capability through strategic investment, workforce development and collaboration.
- Lead a diverse workforce, fostering a culture of inclusion, accountability and high performance.
- Oversee governance, risk management, performance and delivery across a complex portfolio of statewide programs and services.
- Model the vision, culture and values of DETSI, fostering collaboration, setting clear priorities and performance expectations and creating an environment that attracts and retains the best talent.
What We're Looking For
We are seeking a highly accomplished executive leader with a demonstrated ability to lead large-scale organisations, influence strategic outcomes and deliver impact through complex stakeholder environments.
You will bring significant experience leading science, innovation, research, policy or service delivery functions within large and complex organisations. You will understand how to translate strategy into action, balancing long-term vision with practical delivery and measurable outcomes.
You are recognised for your ability to build trusted relationships, navigate competing priorities and bring diverse stakeholders together around shared goals. You communicate with credibility, influence and sound judgement and have a proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams through change and transformation, embedding strong governance and fostering cultures where people can perform at their best.
Most importantly, you are motivated by the opportunity to create lasting impact. You see the potential of bringing science and innovation together and understand the role
this integrated portfolio can play in shaping Queensland's future economic prosperity, environmental sustainability and community wellbeing.
Ready to Apply?
We have partnered with Luminary for this process, please visit the candidate page for further information: Luminary Partners
We 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 contact Russell Fairbanks 0457 667 765 or Elena Ryan on 0422 584 231.
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.
