Introduction

Defence is seeking an exceptional senior executive to fill a Chief of Division Grade 2 level in its Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG). The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader, demonstrating a track-record in a relevant innovation, science and technology discipline or in delivering impact from innovation, science and technology, and the ability to negotiate outcomes in contested spaces. 

With demonstrated capability 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. Outstanding interpersonal and representational skills will be key to building strong relationships with Defence clients and national and international science partners.

The ideal candidate will be a collaborative leader, exemplify the Defence Values and Behaviours, and engender a culture of innovation and agility. They will be self-aware, positive in considering and respecting a diversity of ideas and perspectives of others. They will demonstrate the capability to provide timely and accurate advice to senior leaders and Government on complex matters. They will have outstanding judgement, strategic awareness, and parliamentary and media acumen.

Your Role

Chief Platforms

The Chief Platforms Division is an enterprise leader in Defence, reporting directly to the Chief Defence Scientist. Chief Platforms Division has a key role in promoting and influencing the organisation, its people and the Division’s agenda, achieving outcomes in an interdisciplinary, complex and changing environment. Chief Platforms Division is responsible for the cost, quality and impact of innovation, science and technology solutions that produce effective solutions for crewed and uncrewed Australian Defence Force platforms across air, land, maritime and space to achieve capability advantage.

As part of the Senior Leadership Group, you will play a key role in promoting and influencing a shared commitment to the strategic direction of Defence. You will:

•  Lead and manage a Division practicing inclusive leadership and collaboration;

•  Demonstrate strong judgement and capitalise on innovative alternatives to resolve complex problems;

•  Effectively challenge the status quo when required;

•  Demonstrate resilience and personal accountability for the quality of advice and delivery of results through engaging, collaborating and partnering; and

•  Demonstrate exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.

As a capability development division within DSTG, Platforms Division drives and shapes innovation, science and technology capability development and sustainment in the following focus areas:

•  Resilience and Health

•  Survivability and Power Systems

•  Signatures

•  Vehicle Autonomy and Dynamics

•  Mission Autonomy

•  Materials

•  Structures