Director, Native Vegetation and Pastoral Management

Lead a multi-disciplinary branch in South Australia focused on native vegetation and pastoral management, ensuring alignment with environmental governance and community needs.

• Collaborate with senior leaders, statutory boards, Aboriginal Nations, industry partners, and government levels to foster strong relationships for impactful policy development and program implementation.
• Join a values-driven organisation prioritising employee well-being, cultural safety, ongoing training, and development.

About the Role:

The Department for Environment and Water (DEW) is seeking a visionary leader for the role of Director, Native Vegetation and Pastoral Management. As a key member of the Executive team, you will guide South Australia’s efforts in biodiversity conservation, land stewardship, and strategic Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) outcomes. DEW is renowned for its commitment to environmental excellence, progressive workplace practices and promotion of diversity and inclusion.

This role offers a unique platform to influence policy, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture within a supportive environment. With direct access to senior executives, your expertise will drive government priorities and deliver meaningful outcomes for communities across South Australia.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic direction and operational oversight for the Native Vegetation and Pastoral Land Management Branch, ensuring alignment with government priorities.
• Advise senior executives on complex matters related to biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management.
• Foster a positive work culture by nurturing talent, supporting staff well-being, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Represent the Department in state, national, and international forums to advocate for South Australian interests in biodiversity and land management.
• Establish partnerships with local communities, Aboriginal Nations, NGOs, industry stakeholders, and government agencies to achieve shared goals.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and maintain robust governance practices.
• Lead transformational programs supporting government objectives and advancing departmental priorities in environmental stewardship.
• Drive effective communication strategies internally and externally to support policy positioning and incident response requirements.
• Champion workplace health and safety by embedding best practice procedures throughout all operations.

Key Requirements:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in fields like natural resource management, environmental science, law, or public policy, with extensive experience in the public sector or similar environments.
• Proven ability to navigate politically sensitive environments, emphasising collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and inclusivity, particularly with First Nations and diverse partners.
• Demonstrated strategic planning skills, balancing immediate operational needs with long-term sustainability goals, while fostering staff development and leading cultural change.
• Strong leadership and advanced negotiation skills in complex political environments, with a focus on strategic thinking, crisis responsiveness, and effective communication for diverse audiences.
• Comprehensive understanding of environmental governance, including legislative compliance, stakeholder engagement, and policy development, with a commitment to best practice governance and organisational resilience.

The Department is committed to flexible working opportunities, professional growth, and creating an inclusive workplace where your contributions are valued.

Applications close, Friday 12th September 2025.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are encouraged to apply.
To apply, please click "Apply" or contact Ella Morgan on 08 8216 3553 or ella.morgan@robertwalters.com.au for a confidential discussion.