Title: Executive Director, Data, AI and Insights

Requisition ID: 12586

Work Type: Fixed Term Full Time

Fixed Term Period: 5 Years Fixed Term

Location: Melbourne - CBD

Date Posted: 19 Sept 2026

About Us

We create thriving places and connected communities. We plan, build and maintain Victoria’s transport, planning and land services. We are committed to a safe, inclusive and 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

This is a fixed term executive contract for up to five years.

Reporting to the Chief Data and Digital, and based at 1 Spring Street, Melbourne, the Executive Director Data, AI and Insights provides enterprise leadership for the department’s Data, AI and Insights functions, setting direction, strengthening capability and ensuring data and insights support government priorities and improved outcomes for Victorians.

The role leads the department’s enterprise data, analytics and insights agenda, applying data, analysis and emerging technologies to strategic planning, policy development, operational decision-making, performance management and service delivery. It is accountable for the stewardship of the department’s data and information assets, including governance, quality, privacy, security and responsible use, while advancing the adoption of analytics, artificial intelligence and 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’re Someone 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, services and advice to government.
- Builds the enterprise foundations for data, AI and insights, connecting analysis, analytics, modern data platforms, architecture, engineering and integration so the department can scale trusted data, analytics and AI capability.
- Turns AI and innovation into practical public value, moving beyond pilots and ideas to responsible adoption, measurable benefits and safe implementation in a complex public sector environment.
- Embeds intelligence into how the department works, using evidence, foresight, analytics and AI to improve policy, planning, investment, performance and 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.

Click here to access the Position Description.

Qualifications And Experience

You’ll bring

- A tertiary qualification in information systems, data science, computer science, engineering or a related field (mandatory).
- Significant executive or senior leadership experience (10+ years) in data, analytics, artificial intelligence, insights or digital functions within a large, complex or regulated organisation (mandatory).
- Demonstrated experience leading enterprise data, analytics or digital capability, including strategy, governance,



investment, delivery, adoption and measurable organisational outcomes (mandatory).
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders, lead multidisciplinary teams and provide authoritative 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 be required.

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.

How to apply

Click the ‘Apply’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application.

Applications close at 11.59pm on Monday, XX Month 2026.

Please include both your resume and a cover letter addressing how your experience addresses each of the key selection criteria for the role. All applications must be submitted via the online portal, we’re unable to accept email or manual submissions.

For further information about the role, please contact Sam Shaheen, Chief Data and Digital, at [email protected].

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

Key information

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’re here to support you.

📌 Executive Director, Data, AI and Insights (Melbourne)
🏢 Department of Transport and Planning
📍 Melbourne