- National workforce strategy and sector leadership
- Industry‑led national workforce body
- Shaping Australia’s transport and logistics skills system
About the organisation
Industry Skills Australia (ISA) is a Jobs and Skills Council operating within a Commonwealth-funded framework, with responsibility for workforce capability across Australia's Transport Supply Chain Industries – spanning Aviation, Maritime, Rail, Transport and Logistics, and emerging sectors including Space Transport and Omnichannel Logistics and Distribution. Industry-owned and industry-led, ISA operates at the intersection of employers, unions, governments and the national skills system. The organisation plays a direct role in informing Commonwealth decision-making, guiding public investment, and ensuring the vocational education and training system responds to current and emerging industry needs. ISA translates workforce intelligence into policy, strategy and workforce development solutions at a national scale.
About the role
Reporting to the CEO, the Executive Director – Transport provides national leadership for workforce strategy and industry engagement across Australia's aviation, rail, and transport and logistics sectors. The role leads the development of sector workforce plans commissioned by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, ensuring these are grounded in robust industry consultation, labour market analysis and long-term strategic thinking. The Executive Director serves as ISA's senior interface with industry peak bodies, unions, regulators and Commonwealth agencies, representing the organisation in national policy forums and advisory processes. This includes translating complex labour market and economic data into practical strategies that guide government investment and training system reform. As a member of the executive leadership team, the Executive Director also contributes to organisational strategy, governance and performance, and leads a team of five across industry engagement, sector intelligence and strategic planning.
About you
You are a senior leader with deep experience in the transport, aviation, rail or logistics sectors, and a demonstrated ability to operate at the intersection of industry, government and workforce policy. Your experience in workforce planning, industry strategy or economic development is matched by your capacity to translate labour market intelligence into credible, evidence-based policy advice. You have established relationships with industry peak bodies, unions and regulators, and are comfortable representing an organisation's position in complex, multi-stakeholder environments at the national level. Experience engaging with Commonwealth agencies and an understanding of Australia's VET system and workforce policy landscape will be well regarded. A relevant tertiary qualification is preferred, with postgraduate studies in strategy, economics or a related field highly desirable. Aligned with ISA's purpose, you are energised by the opportunity to join a newly formed senior leadership team and make a direct contribution to organisational effectiveness, strategic execution and industry impact.
How to apply
To review requirements, the Candidate Brief and more information see ISA MICROSITE then click ‘Apply Now’ (top right) to submit your CV and concise cover letter. Direct and third-party applications will be forwarded to SHK.
