Director Policy and Government Relations

The Director, Policy and Government Relations will lead the development and execution of strategic policy priorities and work, as well as strategic political and government relationships.

This position reports to the Chief Executive Officer and will form part of a small leadership team and will also lead a small team with a focus on policy, government relations, and policy-relevant projects, to inform decision making by Australian leadership. The position works closely with ATSE’s Fellows, including through policy forums and other committees, and in support of state and territory Divisions to engage effectively with state and territory governments on issues of strategic priority.

The Director coordinates the development and effective delivery of cogent, relevant, proactive and reactive evidence-based policy advice and expert reports on strategic priority matters that will influence national and international debate and inform government, industry and the public. The Director, Policy and Government Relations works closely with the Director, Strategic Communications to ensure such advice and reports are seen, heard and acted on by decision-makers; to prepare ATSE representatives for appearing at meetings, briefings, workshops, inquiries and consultations; and to advise and support the CEO and President, and other Fellows as required, in representations to political and policy leadership.

The position establishes project leadership teams, and develops and manages projects and contracts including budget, resource allocation and delivery of high quality outcomes in a timely manner.

The Director, Policy and Government Relations represents ATSE by developing and maintaining relationships with high-level stakeholders including federal government departments and agencies, and political leadership.

KEY RESULTS AREAS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead the ATSE Policy and Government Relations team in conducting research, analysis and reports to achieve ATSE’s strategic objectives and manage a portfolio of projects and activities.

Develop and manage strategic government and political relationships and advocacy for ATSE

Identify and scope new strategic research and project opportunities and proposals, and oversee project delivery to a high quality and on budget.

Manage ATSE policy work and submissions to relevant enquiries, consultations and reports, and support ATSE Fellows and leadership to effectively appear at and engage with same

Work with ATSE Forum Chairs to lead strategic direction and operations of ATSE Forums.

Monitor and provide advice on the Australian policy and political environment as it pertains to technology, science, and engineering, and on science, research and technology innovation developments nationally and internationally.

In close collaboration with the Director, Strategic Communications, ensure ATSE’s policy and project work is seen, heard, and acted on by decision makers

As a member of the ATSE leadership team, provide senior representation for ATSE and proactively promote ATSE views and policies, and proactively contribute to ATSE’s collaborative, inclusive and outcome-focused culture.

As a member of the ATSE leadership team, proactively and collaboratively work to support a thriving, inclusive workplace culture in which all staff are supported to achieve excellence

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential

Thorough understanding of the essential ingredients of effective creation and delivery of government policy, and the machinery of government, including experience in contributing to and influencing policy outcomes

Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills

High level of self-motivation with a demonstrated ability to effectively lead a team in managing diverse workloads and priorities and deliver quality and timely results

Extremely well developed analytical, research and problem solving skills with demonstrated ability to implement organisational strategies, policies and business plans.

Demonstrated success in devising and leading advocacy campaigns, and building political and senior policy-making networks and consensus

Postgraduate Qualifications and/or equivalent relevant experience in technology, engineering and/or science policy and research.

Strong commitment to working collaboratively and inclusively, and to the values of inclusivity, transparency, and excellence.