Associate Directors, Fostering Innovation
You. At the centre of big ideas.
Work across high-profile innovation priorities spanning hubs, startups, housing, manufacturing and emerging programs-
Bring your experience in policy, program delivery or stakeholder engagement to support innovation-led economic outcomes
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Three ( full-time ongoing opportunities, Clerk Grade 11/12 ($154,231 to $178,36 plus superannuation and leave loading based in Martin Place
About the Roles
As an Associate Director you will join the Fostering Innovation branch within Investment NSW group. We have three exciting opportunities to lead various teams: Places (Hubs), Scaling & Missions, and Startups.
These roles support delivery of the NSW Innovation Blueprint through innovation policy, stakeholder engagement, place-based development and program implementation. The Places (Hubs) role focuses on innovation-led growth across NSW-based hubs, including Tech Central and the Western Sydney Startup Hub. Scaling and Missions team leads initiatives aligned to housing, manufacturing and future innovation programs aligned with the government’s industry missions; whilst the Startups team supports programs such as MVP Ventures, helping businesses scale and fostering a strong and enduring innovation ecosystem.
To learn more about the role please review the Role Description.
We're Looking For
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Policy development (preferably industry and/or innovation related): Demonstrated experience leading strategy, policy development that drives innovation in a complex government or organisational context.
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Project and Program delivery leadership (preferably industry and/or innovation related): Advanced project and program leadership skills, including overseeing multiple high-risk or high-profile initiatives, managing competing priorities, and ensuring delivery within tight timeframes and governance frameworks.
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Strategic translation and problem-solving: Proven capability to interpret strategic priorities, emerging trends and ambiguity into clear, actionable initiatives, policy advice or investment opportunities.
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Executive communication and advisory: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated experience providing high-quality, evidence-based advice, briefings and recommendations to senior leadership and decision-makers.
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Governance & Accountability: Experience embedding strong governance, risk management and assurance practices to support effective and compliant delivery.
We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply.
Why Join Us?
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Flexible Working: Broad range of flexible working arrangements
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Career Development: Ongoing learning through expert-led sessions, online training, and professional development opportunities
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Work-Life Balance: Flex time accrual for extra hours worked based on a 35-hour standard week
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Wellbeing Support: Access to employee assistance program, fitness passport program, and wellbeing initiatives
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Inclusive Culture: Staff-led networks including Aboriginal Staff Advisory Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Network, and Young Professionals Network
How to Apply
Click ‘Apply Online’ and submit your application including:
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A resume detailing relevant knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 5 pages)
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A cover letter addressing how you meet the requirements of the role (maximum 2 pages)
Closing date: Thursday, 9 July 2026 (9:59 AM)
Salary: Classification Clerk Grade 11/12. Package includes base salary ($154,231 - $178,36 plus superannuation (12%) and leave loading.
Hiring Manager: Kate Farr, A/ Director – Innovation and Collaboration,
[email protected]
About the Premier's Department
Connecting to Deliver from the Heart of Government
The Premier's Department leads the state's 430,000 public servants, driving collaboration and the delivery of whole-of-government priorities. Learn more about the department and a career at Premier’s Department.
Our Commitment
We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and other diverse communities.
The Premier's Department acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work and live. We pay respect to Ancestors and Elders past and present. We recognise and learn from the strengths of First Nations peoples of New South Wales and their continuing connection to, and unique cultural and spiritual relationship with, Country.
Reasonable Adjustments: The selection process will include assessment techniques to determine your suitability. You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage by indicating in pre-screening questions, contacting the Talent Team at
[email protected], or reaching out to the hiring manager.
Talent Pool: A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process. If eligible, you may be contacted for ongoing and temporary opportunities in the same role or grade that become available over an 18-month period.
