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Lead Victoria's plant biosecurity strategy and scientific leadership
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Influence national policy and protect Victoria's agricultural future
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Executive opportunity to shape government, industry and community outcomes
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) plays a critical role in protecting Victoria's environment, agriculture, economy and communities. Through Agriculture Victoria and Biosecurity Victoria division, the department works alongside industry, research organisations, government and the community to strengthen the state's biosecurity system, safeguard market access and prepare for emerging threats. As Victoria faces increasing biosecurity risks driven by global trade, climate change and evolving pest and disease pathways, this is a rare opportunity to provide scientific leadership that will have lasting impact across the state and nationally.
Reporting to the Executive Director, Biosecurity Victoria, the Chief Plant Health Officer is Victoria's principal scientific authority on plant health and biosecurity. You will lead the development of strategic plant biosecurity policy, programs and preparedness initiatives that protect Victoria's horticulture, forestry, agriculture and natural environment from exotic and emerging plant pests and diseases. Providing trusted advice to the Executive Director, senior government leaders and the Minister for Agriculture, you will influence policy and decision-making at the highest levels while representing Victoria on national committees and negotiating outcomes that protect the state's biosecurity and trade interests. Leading a highly specialised team, you will also drive emergency preparedness and response capability, strengthen partnerships across government, industry and research, and foster innovation across surveillance, compliance and legislative frameworks.
To succeed in this role, you will be a recognised scientific leader with extensive experience in plant biosecurity, plant health, plant pathology or a related discipline, combined with a demonstrated ability to lead complex programs and influence policy in highly regulated environments. You will bring exceptional strategic thinking, sound scientific judgement and the ability to communicate complex technical issues to diverse audiences, including Ministers, senior executives and industry leaders. An accomplished executive, you will have a collaborative leadership style, outstanding stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills, and a proven track record of building high-performing teams and delivering outcomes through influence and partnership. Relevant tertiary qualifications in Agricultural Science or a related discipline are essential, with postgraduate qualifications, including a PhD, highly regarded.
This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is Attwood (flexibility may be available) with hybrid work arrangements available.
To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.
For further information, please refer to the attached position description or call Natasha Diamond on 0412 822 348 or Paul Lefebvre on 0408 036 046. Please note that for this vacancy, all applications will be screened by Davidson Executive.
Applications close at midnight on Sunday, 26 July 2026.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.
Preferred candidates will be required to:
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undertake pre-employment screening, including completion of a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check
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have the ir misconduct declarations validated, irrespective of whether misconduct has been declared or not
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provide at least two appropriate referees, including their current direct line manager or where relevant (i.e. because they are not employed) most recent direct line manager in accordance with the requirements set out in executive reference checks.
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provide evidence of their right to work in Australia
For more information about the pre-screening requirements for this position, please refer to the position description.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.
A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace
DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.
