Executive Director Science and Innovation

Department of Energy and Economic Diversification; Perth; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Energy and Economic Diversification (DEED) in Western Australia seeks an experienced Senior Executive role: Executive Director, Science and Innovation. You will lead strategy, policies and programs to strengthen WA’s science and innovation capacity, diversify the economy, and create jobs.

You’ll build partnerships across industry, government, research, and academia, and support translation of research into outcomes.

Job description

Shape the Future of Western Australia

Join a department that’s powering WA’s energy transition and building a bold, diverse economy for generations to come. At the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification (DEED), your work will help drive innovation, support local businesses, and position WA on the global stage. If you're ready to make a real impact - this is where your next chapter begins.

About the Department

DEED is responsible for securing the State’s energy and economic future, driving innovation and long-term prosperity for all.

This includes:

• Ensuring Western Australia is a reliable, efficient and attractive place to do business
• Increasing business investment
• Fostering Western Australia’s skills and capacity now and into the future
• Driving the energy transition

The Department is guided by the following principles which shape our culture, decision-making and strategic direction:

• Lead with empathy and integrity : Act with kindness, respect and care for colleagues, stakeholders and communities. Be authentic and transparent, making grounded decisions that balance immediate needs with long-term priorities.
• Collaborate and connect : Build trust and strong relationships across teams, regions and international offices. Break down silos, share expertise and engage stakeholders constructively to deliver better outcomes together.
• Take ownership and be accountable : Lead at every level by taking initiative, leaning on strengths and empowering others. Define roles, responsibilities and decision pathways clearly, ensuring accountability is visible and consistent.
• Focus on progress and continuous improvement : Prioritise finding practical solutions. Reflect, learn and adapt quickly to changing circumstances, continuously improving processes to enhance efficiency and reduce duplication.
• Stay aligned to purpose and impact : Keep connected to DEED’s bigger picture, enabling Western Australia’s long-term prosperity. Align actions to strategy, work across government and deliver innovative solutions that create enduring value for the community.

About the Role

Tenure: This is a fixed term Senior Executive Service (SES) appointment for a term of up to five (5) years.

Science and Innovation, Industry and Corporate Capability builds Western Australia’s capacity through targeted support for innovation and industry development. The group also ensures the effective and efficient administration of DEED’s financial assistance and equity programs and business support functions.

As Executive Director Science and Innovation, you will lead the development and delivery of strategies, policies and programs that strengthen Western Australia’s science and innovation capability, diversify the economy and create jobs. Working across industry, government, research, academia and the innovation sector, you will build strategic partnerships, facilitate investment and support the translation of research into sustainable economic outcomes. You will provide high-level advice to Ministers and senior leaders, champion WA’s science and innovation strengths and support the activities of the Chief Scientist.

As a member of the Corporate Executive, you will contribute to the Department’s strategic direction and lead a collaborative, high-performing division, building capability and delivering on government priorities. Further information about the role and the expected leadership behaviours can be found in the attached Job Description Form.

Assessment of leadership behaviours may be included in the recruitment process.

Supporting diversity and inclusion

As an equal opportunity employer, the department is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workplace and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. Preference may be given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people of diverse sexualities, and young people. If you have any communication or access needs and require adjustments to take part in the application process, please contact our Talent Team at [e-mail] . We are committed to providing a fair and supportive recruitment experience for everyone.

Additional job information

Applications must be submitted prior to the closing date and time specified in the job advertisement. Late submissions will not be accepted. Applicants deemed suitable may be considered for appointment to similar roles within the department for up to 12 months following the completion of this recruitment process. Successful candidates will be required to obtain a National Police Clearance before commencing employment. Some positions may also require an Australian Government Security Clearance.

Closing Date: Your online application must be submitted online prior to the closing date and time - 3:00 PM (AWST) on Friday, 13 November 2026