Executive Director - Early Childhood Strategy & Performance

This is an opportunity to join one of the largest and most impactful public sector organisations in the state, influence system-wide outcomes for Queensland’s children and families whilst operating at the forefront of policy, reform and innovation.

About the Department of Education:

The Department of Education (DoE) is committed to early childhood sector, a high performing education system and supporting a vibrant arts and cultural sector for Queensland.

Our commitment: We promote equity and excellence and Queensland's cultural identity in our commitment to respect, protect and promote human rights. We are committed to working together with Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples to close the gap. Our objectives: Every child starting strong; Every student achieving and realising their full potential; Vibrant arts and culture across the state; Capable, confident people, responsive systems, better outcomes.

About the Role:

The Early Childhood, Regulation and Communication Divisionis seeking an exceptional executive leader to drive strategy, performance, and system-wide reform across early childhood education and care. This is a rare opportunity to influence policy, funding, and service delivery at scale delivering meaningful outcomes for children, families, and communities across the state.

As Executive Director, Strategy & Performance, you will lead the strategic direction, design and evaluation of early childhood programs and services, ensuring alignment with government priorities and evolving community expectations. You will operate at the centre of decision-making, providing trusted, evidence-based advice to senior leadership, including the Deputy Director-General, Director-General and Minister.

This role combines effective leadership, strategy, policy, funding design, and performance oversight, with a strong focus on innovation, impact, and long-term sustainability.

Specific responsibilities include:

• Lead the development and execution of strategy for early childhood education and care across Queensland
• Design and oversee funding models, ensuring strong return on investment and continuous improvement.
• Provide high-level strategic advice to government and senior executives.
• Drive research, analysis and insight to inform policy reform and program delivery.
• Through effective stakeholder management, build and influence relationships across government, education sector and national bodies.
• Identify emerging issues and shape proactive, evidence-based solutions.
• Foster a high-performing, innovative and collaborative culture through confident leadership of a large multi-disciplinary team.

About You:

You are a proven executive leader with experience operating in complex, politically sensitive environments. You will bring:

• A strong track record in strategy, policy, and large-scale service delivery ideally in a large public sector environment.
• Experience leading reform and driving outcomes across government, private or not-for-profit sectors, education advantageous.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and high-level influencing skills.
• The ability to navigate complex issues and deliver results in high-pressure environments.
• A passion and commitment to building capability and leading high-performing teams.
• You will be recognised for your judgement, integrity, and ability to lead through complexity and change.

Instructions to apply:

• Attach a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant work history)
• Attach a synopsis of how your experience, abilities and knowledge are relevant to this role.

We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive.

Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

For a full list of the position responsibilities and mandatory requirements, please ensure you download the attached Role Description and Applicant Information Package and follow the instructions.