Executive Director, Data, AI and Insights

Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs

Reference: 12586

About Us

We create thriving places andconnectedcommunities. We plan,buildandmaintainVictoria's transport,planningand land services. We are committed to a safe,inclusiveand high-performing workplace.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive workplace where our people can thrive and do meaningful work.

About the role

The role leads the department's enterprise data,analyticsand insights agenda, applying data, analysis and emerging technologies to strategic planning, policy development, operational decision-making, performancemanagementand service delivery. It is accountable for the stewardship of the department's data and information assets, including governance, quality, privacy,securityand responsible use, while advancing the adoption of analytics, artificialintelligenceand emerging technologies in a controlled and ethical way. Working with the Chief Data and Digital, senior executives and partners across government, the role leads multidisciplinary teams and influences enterprise priorities to improve transport and planning outcomes for Victorians.

What we're looking for

You'resomeone who:

• Sets and leads the enterprise strategy for data, AI, insights and innovation, bringing executive leadership and judgement to how these capabilities strengthen the department's decisions,servicesand advice to government.
• Builds the enterprise foundations for data, AI and insights, connecting analysis, analytics, modern data platforms, architecture,engineeringand integration so the department can scale trusted data,analyticsand AI capability.
• Turns AI and innovation into practical public value, moving beyond pilots and ideas to responsible adoption, measurablebenefitsand safe implementation in a complex public sector environment.
• Embeds intelligence into how the department works, using evidence, foresight,analyticsand AI to improve policy, planning, investment,performanceand service outcomes.
• Leads through influence, partnerships and people, building trust, capability and momentum across multidisciplinary teams, senior stakeholders and the broader transport and planning system.

Qualifications and experience

You'llbring:

• A tertiary qualification in information systems, data science, computer science,engineeringor a related field (mandatory).
• Significant executive or senior leadership experience (10+ years) in data, analytics, artificial intelligence,insightsor digital functions within a large,complexor regulated organisation (mandatory).
• Demonstrated experience leading enterprise data, analytics or digital capability, including strategy, governance, investment, delivery,adoptionand measurable organisational outcomes (mandatory).
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders, lead multidisciplinary teams andprovideauthoritative advice on complex issues affecting departmental priorities and public value (mandatory).

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 Sunday, 4 October 2026.

For further information about the role, please contact Serena Kelsall, Executive Assitant at

If you require any adjustments to fullyparticipatein 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 Sunday 4 October 2026 at 11.59pm