EL1 Strategy Assistant Director
Talent International is currently recruiting for an EL1 Strategy Assistant Director to work for one of our Federal Government clients based in Surry Hills. The position is a 12-month contract role with the possibility of extension. The role pays $602.55/day + Super.
7.6 hours per day and 38 hours per week
The EL1 Assistant Director Strategy is accountable under direction to undertake work with a high level of complexity that has strategic, political and operational significance.
The EL1 Assistant Director Strategy will exercise a considerable degree of independence to engage in very complex problem-solving and issues management within the functions. The position will exercise sound judgement to produce high-level policy advice and operational support.
The position is responsible for actively managing key internal and external stakeholder relationships and may be required to represent and negotiate on behalf of the client to advance the Client’s interests across a range of forums.
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
- Gathering and developing structured insights and recommendations for strategic projects.
- Developing fact-based quantitative and qualitative analysis including modelling in Microsoft Excel.
- Creating materials for senior internal and external stakeholders, including the Minister, Board and Executive Leadership Team to communicate perspectives, recommendations and implications for the client.
- Presenting recommendations and facilitating discussions with a range of Agency stakeholders and senior leadership. Developing action plans and ensuring stakeholder alignment to enable successful implementation.
- Developing content to embed change, including authorship of policy papers and guidance materials.
- Collaborating with and supporting business areas to structure problems, inform options and drive solutions and Agency-wide priorities.
Essential criteria
- Demonstrated ability to provide strategic analysis and develop actionable insights for complex projects.
- Proficiency in using data and evidence to support strategic decision-making, including quantitative and qualitative analysis (e.g., data modelling, scenario planning).
- Experience in developing, reviewing, or implementing policy initiatives, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and external legislative/regulatory frameworks.
- Ability to write clear, concise, and influential policy papers, guidance materials, and reports for senior stakeholders, including Ministers and Board members.
- Proven experience in managing and maintaining key internal and external relationships, engaging with diverse stakeholders, including senior leaders, government agencies, and industry partners.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence and align stakeholders with strategic priorities.
- Experience in managing high-complexity projects or work programs, including coordinating and driving change initiatives across an organisation.
- Demonstrated ability to develop action plans and ensure successful implementation of strategic initiatives.
- Ability to identify and address complex issues with sound judgement, often under tight deadlines, and provide practical, strategic solutions.
- Strong critical thinking skills with the ability to balance competing priorities and manage ambiguity.
- Ability to lead, collaborate, and influence others across organisational boundaries to achieve common goals, demonstrating a collaborative and results-oriented approach.
- Experience in facilitating discussions and presenting findings to senior leadership to influence decision-making.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare high-quality briefing materials, presentations, and reports tailored for different audiences.
- Ability to communicate complex issues clearly and persuasively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Desirable criteria
- Previous experience working in the disability sector or the public sector
- Knowledge of the NDIS framework, policies, and operations would be an advantage.
- Advanced skills in using Microsoft Excel or similar tools for data analysis, modelling, and visualisation.
- Ability to develop complex models to support strategic recommendations.
- A relevant degree or higher qualification in public policy, business, economics, or a related field is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to drive innovation and continuous improvement in processes and outcomes.
- Experience in identifying areas for improvement and implementing strategies that enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
- Certification or formal training in project management methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile, etc.) would be advantageous.
If you are interested in this role, please APPLY NOW by submitting your resume in MS Word Format. For further information, you may contact Uvez Ahmed on 02 8240 9596 / uvez.ahmed@talentinternational.com for a confidential discussion.