Director Research & DataIndigenous Centre of Vocational Excellence (ICOVE)
Lead nationally significant research that drives First Nations VET reform
Competitive Salary Package of $196,805 (Inclusive of Super) + Salary Packaging
Remote (Australia-wide)
Why Join ICOVE?
The Indigenous Centre of Vocational Excellence (ICOVE) is a First Nations-led national initiative established under the Australian Government's National Skills Agreement and aligned with Closing the Gap reforms.
Delivered in partnership between Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS) and Tranby Aboriginal Co-operative, ICOVE is strengthening the vocational education and training (VET) system for First Nations people through innovation, partnership, capability building and evidence-led reform.
We're seeking an experienced Director Research & Data to establish and lead our national Research & Data function, helping shape policy, strengthen Indigenous Data Sovereignty and deliver meaningful outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia.
About the RoleReporting to the Executive Director – Policy & Research, you'll provide strategic leadership for ICOVE's Research & Data pillar, developing the organisation's research agenda, Indigenous Data Governance framework and monitoring, evaluation and learning systems.
You'll translate complex research into practical insights that influence policy, strengthen partnerships and support evidence-based decision-making across the First Nations VET sector.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the development and implementation of ICOVE's Research & Data Strategy




Establish Indigenous Data Governance and Indigenous Data Sovereignty frameworks
Design and oversee national research, monitoring and evaluation projects
Produce high-quality research reports, evidence briefs and ICOVE's flagship Blak Papers
Build strong partnerships with First Nations organisations, universities, government and sector stakeholders
Translate research findings into practical recommendations that inform national reform
Lead and develop a high-performing Research & Data team
Manage research budgets, projects and reporting requirements
Represent ICOVE at national forums, committees and stakeholder meetings
Foster a culture of evidence-based decision-making across the organisation
About YouYou'll be a strategic and collaborative research leader with extensive experience leading complex research, evaluation or data functions.
You'll also bring:
Tertiary qualifications in Research, Evaluation, Data Analytics, Social Sciences, Statistics, Education or a related discipline
Significant senior leadership experience within research, evaluation or data environments
Strong knowledge of Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Indigenous Data Governance principles
Demonstrated experience developing monitoring, evaluation and learning frameworks




Proven success leading complex, multi-stakeholder research initiatives
Exceptional analytical, critical thinking and written communication skills
Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing organisational budgets
Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management capability
Experience working collaboratively across government, research and community sectors
Highly regarded:
Experience working within Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations
Postgraduate qualifications (Masters or PhD)
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage and established connections within the VET or community-controlled sectors
Why You'll Love Working With UsIn return, you'll receive:
Competitive salary package of $196,805 (Inclusive of Super)
Salary packaging opportunities
Flexible remote working arrangements
Professional development and leadership opportunities
The opportunity to establish and lead a current national Research & Data function
Work alongside respected Aboriginal leaders driving national reform
Make a lasting impact on First Nations education and training outcomes
Join an organisation committed to Aboriginal community control, innovation and evidence-led change
Apply NowIf you're passionate about research, Indigenous Data Sovereignty and using evidence to create lasting change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and help shape the future of First Nations vocational education and training across Australia.

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