DEPUTY SECRETARY, HIGHER EDUCATION & SKILLS GROUP

• Pivotal leadership role

• Ambitious agenda

• Broad portfolio with direct community and employer impact

About the organisation 
The Higher Education and Skills Group (HESG) in the Department of Education and Training provides Victorians with access to high-quality vocational education and training that leads to current and future jobs. Record investment has placed the TAFE and training sector at the heart of Victoria’s economic and social recovery from the global pandemic by ensuring that Victorians get the training they need, for the job they want. HESG works closely with industry partners to develop a system that meets the needs of both industry and government, while supporting individual students to get the skills and education they need.  Promoting an integrated, student-centred approach to post-secondary education, HESG facilitates participation and achievement by supporting partnerships between learners, providers, employers, and advising on public funding and regulation. HESG manages the Government-funded training market, public provider governance and accountability, Higher Education and the apprenticeship system.

About the role 
The Deputy Secretary (SES3) is responsible for implementing an ambitious policy and investment agenda, and delivering funding and system reform and quality improvements. Part of the Executive Board, the Deputy Secretary has collective and group accountability for delivering funding and system services and quality improvements. Contributing to national thought leadership, the role provides trusted advice to the Secretary and Ministers in relation to matters across the post-secondary sector, ensuring more Victorians benefit from education and training, improved business productivity and community cohesion.  The Deputy Secretary oversees a strong reform agenda at both State and national levels, provides strong public provider governance and oversight, and works closely with industry partners and the broader training and skills sector.   This role presents a unique opportunity to drive positive structural change across the higher education and training sectors.

About you 
Inspiring, collaborative and a seasoned leader, you are widely respected for the success you have achieved through building high performing teams and delivering in complex public sector contexts. With a passion for all facets of the post-secondary sector, you are adept in navigating government, known for your sophisticated thinking and recognised as a problem solver. Presenting with energy and gravitas, you outline a compelling vision that motivates people to achieve. Your career history demonstrates proven influence in delivering large scale system change. You are excited by challenge and the fine balancing of government, business and community priorities, across a critical state-wide portfolio that will benefit all Victorians. 

For more information, please contact Penny Wilson at SHK on +61 3 8620 8017 or click ‘Apply for this job’. Please submit your resume in Microsoft Word format. 

To view the candidate brief, please click here.