Principal, Strategic Data Capability

Victorian Government; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The Victorian Government seeks a Principal, Strategic Data Capability to lead the design and delivery of data solutions, shaping data strategy and coordinating program planning. You will work with stakeholders across Data and Digital to ensure data is collected, processed and used securely, ethically and effectively.

You will bring strong governance, program planning experience, and the ability to translate complex data problems into practical outcomes, with a focus on advancing data

Qualifications

• Mandatory tertiary qualification in information systems, computer science, business, commerce or related field.
• Proven experience gathering requirements from business stakeholders and translating into technical specs.
• Solid experience in program planning with familiarity in Agile methodologies.
• Desirable experience designing data solutions across platforms and using SQL or Python.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and delivery of data solutions to support evidence-based decisions.
• Shape data strategy and coordinate program planning across Data and Digital.
• Ensure data is managed securely, ethically and in line with best practice.
• Engage stakeholders to translate needs into technical solutions and outcomes.

Skills

Data problem solving

Stakeholder engagement

Data governance & security

Emerging technologies & processes

Clear communication

Education

Tertiary qualification in information systems or related field

Tools

SQL

Python

Job description

Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs

Reference: 12922

About the role

The Principal, Strategic Data Capability leads the design and delivery of data solutions that help the Department make better, evidence based decisions. Working closely with stakeholders across Data and Digital and the wider business, you’ll shape data strategy, coordinate program planning and ensure data is managed securely, ethically and in line with best practice. Reporting to the Chief Data & Digital, you'll bring strong business engagement and strategic thinking, along with sound judgement, to projects that improve how the Department collects, processes and uses data, helping deliver better, more reliable outcomes for Victorians.

Whatwe’relooking for

You’resomeone who:

• translates complex data problems into practical, usable solutions.
• builds strong relationships with stakeholders and brings them along on the data journey.
• has a sharp eye for data governance, quality and security, and takes pride in doing things the right way.
• looks ahead, bringing new technologies and better ways of working into everyday practice.
• communicates clearly, whether explaining technical detail to specialists or distilling it for a non-technical audience.

You’llbring:

• A tertiary qualification in information systems, computer science, business, commerce or a related field, or equivalent experience (mandatory).
• Proven experience collaborating with business stakeholders to gather requirements and translate them into technical specifications (mandatory).
• Solid experience in program planning and familiarity with agile methodologies and practices (mandatory).
• Experience designing data solutions across various platforms and technologies, and confidence working with SQL or Python (desirable).

Pre-employment checks and employment conditions

Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will berequired.

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position.

Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply.

Applications close at 11.59pm on Tuesday, 27th October 2026.

For further information about the role, please contact Ashleigh McPherson - Executive Assistant to Chief Data & Digital, at [e-mail]

Redeployees

If you are a VPS redeployee, please state this in your cover letter and include your case manager’s contact details. This helps ensure your redeployment status is appropriately considered. For more information on redeployment, visit the Victorian Government policy

If you require any adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process or need the advert or attachments in an accessible format (e.g., large print), please contact us.We'rehere to support you.

Applications close Tuesday 27 October 2026 at 11.59pm