Ready to lead a critical finance function in a department driving real outcomes for Queenslanders?
As Chief Finance Officer (SES2) with the Department of Trade, Employment and Training (DTET), you’ll work directly with the executive team to shape strategic financial direction, ensure robust compliance, and support state-wide service delivery.

Lead a team of ~20 FTE, engage with key stakeholders including Queensland Treasury and QAO, and drive innovation in financial systems and reporting. This Brisbane-based role is your opportunity to influence real outcomes for Queenslanders. CPA, CA or MIPA membership is essential.

Job details

This role presents a unique opportunity to lead financial and facilities functions within a high-performing department committed to delivering quality training, skills development and employment programs across Queensland. Based in Brisbane and reporting to the Deputy Director-General, the CFO will provide expert financial advice and direction to the Director-General, Board of Management, and Audit and Risk Committee. The Department of Trade, Employment and Training (DTET) is seeking a strategic and experienced financial leader for the role of Chief Finance Officer (SES2). The Chief Finance Officer plays a central role in delivering the department's financial obligations under the Financial Accountability Act 2009. You will support evidence-based decision making through high-quality forecasting, budgeting, and reporting, while ensuring robust internal financial controls, compliance and assurance measures are in place. You will lead a team of around 20 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees across finance and facilities functions and collaborate across the department to drive financial performance aligned with strategic priorities.

About the role
As the Chief Finance Officer, you will
• Lead strategic financial planning, budget development, forecasting and performance reporting across the department.
• Provide advice to the executive team and internal governance committees on resourcing, financial risk, and investment strategies.
• Manage relationships with key external stakeholders, including Queensland Treasury, Queensland Audit Office and other state and federal agencies.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, statutory obligations, financial reporting standards and audit requirements.

What we are looking for
The position requires an applicant who can:
• Provide high-level advice and analysis on financial management, forecasting and risk.
• Lead effective budget development and monitoring processes.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including executive leaders.

Refer to the Role Description for a full list of responsibilities and what we are looking for.

Mandatory qualifications:
Under the Financial Accountability Act 2009, the officer appointed to the Chief Finance Officer role must hold one of the following:
• CPA or above (for Australia),
• CA or above (the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia) or
• MIPA or above (Institute of Public Accountants), or recognised by at least two of these bodies having similar requirements for membership.

How to apply
To apply, please submit the below via the SmartJobs application page:
• Your current resume, including two referees.
• Provide a short statement (maximum 1 page) telling us why you are interested in this role and your motivation for applying.

Please ensure you refer to the Role Description 'Interested in applying' section for more information on what to include as part of your application.
We're committed to appointing the best-suited person for each role. This includes considering equity, diversity, respect, and inclusion needs within our agency. We believe that these elements are essential for the success of our team, and we strongly encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. If you require any reasonable adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please do not hesitate to reach out to the designated contact for the vacancy.

Applicants 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.

• Applicant Information Package DTET 2025 (PDF, 783KB)
  
  
  653699 25 - Role Description (Word, 235KB)