Deputy Secretary Strategic Policy, Science And Engagement

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is seeking a Depuy Secretary Strategic Policy, Science and Engagement to drive coordination and collaboration across the department and with other agencies, ensuring DCCEEW is agile and responsive to emerging risks, trends, and opportunities.


About the Role

This role provides high-level strategic and authoritative advice to Ministers, the Secretary, and executive leadership teams on key areas such as strategic policy, NSW's plan for nature, forestry, communication and engagement, science, insights, and Aboriginal outcomes.


The role is critical in shaping whole of department policy and delivering impactful results in key areas like nature conservation and First Nations knowledge.


You will lead the development and implementation of the Government’s strategy on nature and conservation, ensuring an integrated and outcomes-focused approach to address the decline in nature. In addition, the role requires you to forge and enhance long-term partnerships, representing the department in key consultations and negotiations with external stakeholders, including other jurisdictions. You will also lead whole of department reform initiatives and strategic policy priorities, enabling innovative solutions that help the government achieve its objectives.


About You

Our ideal candidate will:

Have expertise in delivering multiple, concurrent strategic policy, communication, and engagement initiatives in dynamic, scientifically rigorous, and politically sensitive environments.
Be skilled in identifying and managing risks, opportunities, and consequences across strategic policy, science, and engagement functions in complex socio-political contexts.
Be proficient in translating complex technical and operational information into actionable policy, science, communication, engagement, and Aboriginal outcomes.
Be experienced in brokering joint action and building consensus across diverse stakeholders amidst conflicting priorities, limited resources, and time constraints.

Essential Requirements

Degree qualification in a relevant discipline and/or equivalent relevant experience

For more information read the full Role Description: Deputy Secretary Strategic Policy, Science and Engagement


Who we are

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.


DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.


DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.


We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.


To Apply

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.


Applications close Sunday +th February at 11:55PM.


Should you require further information about the role please contact Michael Brown – Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition via michael.brown@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or 0418 6+6 254.


A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.


Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
How we encourage and support people with disability
Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Michael Brown via michael.brown@dpie.nsw.gov.au or 0418 6+6 254 (please mention reference number 540221).


If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn


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