Director Shark Management

• Temporary opportunity for up to 2 years
• Open to all NSW locations with a focus on Regional NSW  
• SEB1 Total Remuneration Package (TRP) starting from $239,251 to $264.197 per annum including superannuation, commensurate with experience

About the Role

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is seeking an exceptional leader to direct the NSW Shark Management Program, a world-leading initiative that balances public safety, marine conservation and evidence-based decision making.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a multidisciplinary program that operates at the intersection of science, policy and community engagement. Working closely with government, industry, researchers and community stakeholders, you will shape and deliver initiatives that protect ocean users while supporting the sustainable management of marine ecosystems.

• Lead the delivery of the NSW Shark Management Program, providing strategic oversight of program implementation, governance, performance and evaluation.
• Drive complex cross-agency initiatives, provide trusted advice to senior executives and Ministers, and build strong partnerships to achieve balanced environmental and community outcomes.

About you

You are a strategic and influential executive with experience leading complex, high-profile programs in government, environmental management, natural resource management or a related field.

You bring strong stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills, a track record of delivering outcomes in challenging environments, extensive program management experience, and the ability to provide evidence-based advice on issues of public and political significance.

You are an authentic leader who builds strong partnerships, drives performance and successfully navigates competing priorities to achieve results.

Applying is easy!
Submit your current Resume/CV and a Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience, and why you’re our ideal candidate.

If you’d like to know more about the role, please view the Role Description.

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Thor Saunders, Executive Director Research & Evaluation on thor.saunders@dpird.nsw.gov.au  or call Felicity Gillard on 04•• ••• 002.

Applications close on Sunday 16 August 2026 at 11:59 pm.

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to; gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation to apply. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.  Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

About Us

Together, we are DPIRD

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.

  The department brings together:

• Local Land Services
• NSW Resources
• Agriculture and Biosecurity
• Fisheries and Forestry
• Regional Development and Delivery.

At DPIRD  75 per cent of the team are living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

Additional Information
The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and other assessments as required.
A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months.

DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.