This is a Senior Executive Service (SES) role with an attractive remuneration package starting at $211,558 for a fixed term appointment up to five (5) years.
Relocation support available and access to a vehicle under the Senior Officers Vehicle Scheme (SOVS).
Western Australia is a great place to live and deliver elections. And it’s getting better as we transform the Western Australian Electoral Commission (WAEC) into a leading electoral service through modernising systems, strengthening capability, and lifting the experience for voters and stakeholders.
Elections might look straightforward from the outside, but behind every polling place, ballot count and result is a team that’s calm, switched-on and committed to getting it right. From State Elections and by-elections to Local Government and a wide range of community and private elections, we’re always planning, delivering and improving.
We are refreshing our WAEC values that underpin our work, guiding everything we do to ensure that we are one cohesive team pulling in the same direction. Join us for a rewarding executive leadership position offering a career opportunity with purpose, because in the end it’s not just about running an election. It’s about playing your part in something bigger, helping shape the future of WA.
The Opportunity:
As Director Election Operations, you will be accountable for the end-to-end delivery of State, Local Government and non-parliamentary elections, ensuring elections are conducted with integrity, security and public confidence. This role demands deep expertise in election delivery and a comprehensive understanding of electoral processes, legislation and operational risk across one or more jurisdictions.
Reporting to the Deputy Electoral Commissioner, you will provide leadership over strategic operational capability, long‑term electoral preparedness and the execution of major cyclical election events, including Local Governments and State Government general elections. You will oversee complex operational environments, large‑scale workforce mobilisation and critical stakeholder relationships, while driving continuous improvement in electoral systems, planning and delivery.
This is a senior and career defining leadership role requiring sound judgement, calm decision‑making and the credibility that comes from hands‑on election experience. As WAEC’s operational election expert, you will ensure that election delivery reflects contemporary best practice, adapts to emerging risk and innovation, and consistently upholds the integrity of Western Australia’s democratic processes.
About You:
You are a senior leader who understands, at a practical and strategic level, what it takes to deliver trusted elections. You have led major election programs in one or more jurisdictions and bring a deep appreciation of the operational, legislative and reputational complexities that come with safeguarding democratic processes.
You combine strategic leadership with the credibility that only comes from hands‑on experience delivering elections in time‑critical, high‑pressure environments. You are comfortable making difficult decisions with incomplete information, managing risk at scale and balancing competing demands, all while maintaining integrity, transparency and public confidence.
You bring:
- Significant experience leading large‑scale election programs or election operations, with a strong understanding of end‑to‑end election delivery in any jurisdiction
- A deep working knowledge of electoral legislation, policy and operational frameworks, and the ability to translate these into effective, reliable and secure election outcomes
- The judgement and confidence to navigate complex, high‑risk situations and make sound, defensible decisions when it matters most
- Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and mobilising large, temporary election workforces, fostering capability, resilience and accountability
- A collaborative leadership style, with the credibility to influence senior stakeholders, industry partners and inter‑jurisdictional forums at a state and national level
- Exceptional communication skills and executive presence, enabling you to represent the Commission with authority and build trust across government and the community
- A strong commitment to public service values, integrity and inclusion, and a genuine sense of responsibility for serving the democratic interests of the community
This role will appeal to leaders who are motivated by purpose, thrive in complex operational environments, and are committed to continuous improvement in election delivery. Further information, including specific requirements of the role, can be found in the attached Job Description Form.
Want to know more?
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, you are encouraged to contact, Celeste Mallozzi, 0421 852 480.
How to apply:
To apply, please submit:
- A covering letter (maximum two pages)
- A resume outlining the skills, experience and capabilities you will bring to the role
In your covering letter, please outline your motivation for applying for this role and how your skills, values and professional experience align with the position. We are particularly interested in learning about your experience leading complex, large‑scale operational programs and the depth of election knowledge and expertise you would bring to the Commission.
The Job Description Forms is attached to assist you in the preparation of your application.
This job closes at 4PM 22 May 2026. Please allow sufficient time to submit your application.
Select “Apply for Job” at the top or bottom of this advertisement to submit your application. Applications must be submitted online, and if you experience any issues, please contact WAEC Human Resources on 9214 0400.
Other Conditions and Eligibility
To be eligible for a permanent appointment to a position with the WAEC, it is essential that you are an Australian Citizen or have permanent resident status in Australia. Non-permanent residents of Australia are only eligible for fixed term appointments if they possess a valid visa with appropriate working rights for the duration of the fixed term appointment.
The successful applicant will be required to sign a Declaration of Neutrality and Declaration of Confidentiality forms indicating that they have no active or official connection with any political party and will maintain the necessary confidentiality to ensure the integrity of the Commission.
The work-related requirements for the role will be assessed throughout the selection process. A variety of assessment methodologies may be used throughout the recruitment process, including but not limited to skills assessments, psychometric testing, interview/s and referee checks. An executive search may take place at any stage of this process.
