The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) lead the sustainable development of Western Australia’s (WA) regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, we take an approach to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment. To learn more about our department, our team and the work we do, please visit our website.
About the opportunity
There is currently one (1) permanent – full time position available for immediate filling. This is a leadership position based in Perth Metropolitan Area, however regional locations across WA may be considered.
This senior leadership role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of soil ecosystem innovation and drive meaningful impact across WA’s grains industry. Providing both scientific and strategic leadership, the Director oversees a complex and high-value research and development portfolio aligned with state and industry priorities, translating cutting-edge science into outcomes that matter.
The role ensures the Soil Ecosystem Innovation branch delivers high-impact research through a coordinated, forward-looking approach. Working closely with industry, research and government partners, the Director fosters collaboration, innovation and real-world application.
As a key adviser to the Executive Director Broadacre Systems, the Director provides expert guidance on policy, risk and opportunity management, investment prioritisation and performance, supporting sustainable growth across the sector. The position plays a pivotal role in championing DPIRD’s scientific excellence, strengthening its reputation as both a leader and trusted collaborator, while building partnerships and representing the department in influential strategic forums.
This is a career-defining opportunity to lead innovation, influence policy and deliver tangible benefits for WA’s farming enterprises.
We are looking for individuals who demonstrate:
- Strategic Leadership: Significant leadership experience across a geographically diverse team.
- Collaborative Influence: Proven ability to operate effectively in complex political and multi-stakeholder environments, building strong, productive relationships across government, industry, organisations and community groups.
- High-Impact Execution: Strong capability to translate agency objectives into clear strategies, priorities and deliverable programs of work.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Applies knowledge and expertise to understand issues from multiple perspectives and identifies practical, fit-for-purpose solutions.
- Values-Driven Leadership: A track record of fostering high-performing teams through clear expectations, shared purpose and inclusive leadership.
Successful applicants will also hold a Bachelor degree in Agriculture Science or approved equivalent, and a current Western Australian C or C-A class driver's licence or equivalent.
For further information and special requirements for this role please see attached Job Description Form (JDF).
Equity and Diversity
At DPIRD we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and are an equal opportunity employer. We value and strongly encourage people with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, women and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to apply for positions within our agency.
How to Apply
Click the Apply button and attach the following to your application:
- A comprehensive CV that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of two (2) referees.
- A cover letter of no more than three (3) pages in length demonstrating how your skills, knowledge and experience relate to the following Role Specific Requirements:
- Significant leadership experience across a geographically diverse team.
- Substantial experience working in research in a relevant industry.
Your cover letter should also clearly demonstrate what you will bring to the role in the context of the required leadership behaviours and mindset, as well as your alignment with DPIRD’s values (For an overview of the department’s values, please refer to the attached DPIRD Applicant Information Kit). You will need to demonstrate your alignment to DPIRD’s values throughout the process to be considered suitable.
It is recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information. All Work-Related Requirements will be assessed at some stage during the selection process.
Need further information?
For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Kaara Klepper, Executive Director Broadacre Systems on 0476 481 868 during office hours.
If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056 in the first instance. For further information about the recruitment process please contact our Employment team on (08) 6552 1943.
Employment Conditions and Additional Information
DPIRD is an Emergency Management Agency and all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies.
Am I eligible to apply?
To be eligible for a permanent appointment to the Western Australian public sector you must be an Australian citizen or have permanent residency status in Australia. To be eligible for a fixed term or a casual appointment you must have documentary evidence of your entitlement to live and work in Australia for the period as part of your application.
You will be required to provide a current National Police Certificate (police clearance) before commencing employment. If not currently held, this must be acquired prior to appointment at applicant’s expense.
This process may be used to fill other same/similar fixed term, permanent, vacancies that arise in DPIRD at locations listed in this advert. In addition to this, should the successful applicant decline or vacate the advertised position, the panel may select another suitable applicant from this selection process. Both of these options remain valid for a period of twelve (12) months from the approval of the initial recruitment decision.
The recruitment process may include online written assessments, psychometric, cognitive or other testing, job-related tasks, video or live stream interviews, documentation and reference checks or other assessment methodologies as required. We reserve the right to supplement the field of applicants via an executive search if required.
Please ensure you have plenty of time to submit your application to allow for unanticipated problems, as late and proforma applications will not be accepted. (Please note: Online lodgement is system generated. Any submissions on or after 4:00pm will not be accepted).
