Chief Research Services - Department of Defence - ICTCareer

First listed on: 24 June 2021
Chief Research Services


Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) in the Department of Defence is seeking dynamic senior executives to provide leadership and vision to shape the future of scientific research and client programs in the Science Engagement and Impact Division.

Chief Research Services

The Chief Research Services reports directly to Australia’s Chief Defence Scientist and has a key role in leading an ongoing workforce of more than 250 engineers, technicians, computer scientists and other professional service staff who provide highly specialised services and innovative solutions to meet DSTG’s unique science and technology (S&T) requirements.

Research Services Division is augmented with a specialist contractor workforce often exceeding 140 personnel. This integrated workforce delivers a wide range of highly specialised and unique research capability and innovative solutions which provide the advanced research platforms for Defence, National Security and the wider defence S&T ecosystem.

Located in Canberra, this senior executive position will provide the leadership, strategic vision and execution of: emerging digital science capabilities, including computational and data intensive science, research data and information stewardship, and laboratory and experimental systems; highly advanced and nationally recognised research engineering capability required by a cutting-edge S&T organisation; and enabling defence S&T compliance and sovereignty through research security and safety demanded by a complex research and development (R&D) organisation.

The position is responsible for the planning and execution of the ‘Outstanding Research Infrastructure Powering Innovation’ pillar of the More, together: Defence Science and Technology Strategy 2030, which includes multi-billion dollar investment in digital and physical laboratory and experimental infrastructure, as well as collaboration, engagement and facilitation with external S&T infrastructure industry and academia providers required for defence S&T innovation and capability.

Exceptional interpersonal and representational skills will be key to building strong relationships with Defence leadership, publicly funded research organisations, and national and international science partners. The position engages, builds and manages strategic alliance frameworks within the computational science and research engineering fields including industry and academia partnerships and liaising with professional bodies.

The position has a key role in promoting and influencing the organisation and its people and will practice inclusive leadership that respects a diversity of ideas and perspectives. This extends to include being a corporate champion for specific Defence and/or DSTG initiatives and priorities.

The ideal candidate will be a collaborative leader, demonstrating a track record in a relevant science, engineering or technical discipline. They will have the ability to negotiate outcomes in contested spaces, and to influence, negotiate and engender enthusiasm in others. The appointee will have astute judgement, political awareness and an inclusive leadership style, taking a proactive approach to professional and organisational development.

The remuneration package includes superannuation, executive vehicle allowance and, where applicable, relocation expenses. The salary component for these positions may be negotiated with the successful candidates within the Chief of Division Grade 2 range.

To be successful in joining the Defence Senior Leadership Group you will exemplify the One Defence Leadership behaviours and engender a culture of achievement, collaboration and agility. You will be self-aware, positive in considering and respecting a diversity of ideas and perspectives of others.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the role, you must be:

  • an Australian citizen or intending to become one, and
  • assessed as suitable to hold and maintain a Top Secret Positive Vetting security clearance.

If after reading the selection documentation you have any questions, please contact Andrew Norton, Managing Partner at Fisher Leadership on +61 1300 347 437, or info@fisherleadership.com and quote reference DSTcrs0621 to arrange a further discussion.

Applicant information packs, including selection criteria and application instructions, can be obtained by visiting https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/cp/?audiencetypecode=defenceext. Applications close at 11:30pm (AEST) Sunday, 25 July 2021.

For Senior Executive Service administrative recruitment enquiries please contact the Directorate of Senior Officer Management at DSOM@defence.gov.au.