Shape Australia's Energy Future

Location: Sydney preferred; Canberra or Melbourne considered

Appointment: Full-time statutory 3 year appointment

Remuneration: Determined by the Commonwealth Remuneration Tribunal The key duties of the position include:

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is seeking an outstanding Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through its next phase of growth and impact, accelerating innovation, investment and commercialisation in Australia's energy transition.

Established in 2012, ARENA is a corporate Commonwealth entity that supports the development and deployment of renewable energy and related technologies. ARENA has been provided with over $14 billion of funding to date, supporting more than 850 projects. The organisation plays a critical role in addressing technology and commercial barriers, unlocking private investment and advancing Australia's energy transformation.

Reporting to the ARENA Board, the Chief Executive Officer will provide strategic leadership, oversee the agency's investment portfolio and operations, and build productive relationships across government, industry, investors and the research community.

The successful candidate will bring substantial executive leadership experience, sound commercial and investment judgement, and a demonstrated ability to deliver complex programs and outcomes. Experience across energy, infrastructure, technology, investment or government will be highly regarded, together with an understanding of innovation, emerging technologies and their commercial application.

As an accomplished and collaborative leader, you will demonstrate integrity, sound judgement, political awareness and the ability to engage effectively with Ministers, senior government stakeholders and industry. You will foster a high-performing, inclusive and innovative culture,



embracing digital transformation and artificial intelligence to strengthen organisational capability.

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a nationally significant organisation and contribute directly to Australia's clean energy future.

Eligibility The Chief Executive Officer is appointed by the responsible Commonwealth Minister on the recommendation of the ARENA Board, in accordance with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency Act 2011.

The appointment is for a term of an initial three years, with remuneration determined by the Commonwealth Remuneration Tribunal.

Applicants must be Australian citizens. Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged.

For further information, including a confidential discussion or to obtain the Candidate Position Specification, please contact Heidrick & Struggles.

Getting to know the Australian Renewable Energy Agency

ARENA is at the forefront of Australia’s renewable energy transition, funding and supporting innovative solutions that make real impact. By investing in cutting edge technologies, sharing insights with the market and collaborating with industry leaders, we’re accelerating progress towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. Every role here contributes to meaningful change and shapes Australia’s transition to renewable energy. Join our purpose-driven team where innovation thrives and your work matters. With a values driven culture built on knowledge sharing and impact, we offer an advancing environment where you can grow your skills, expand your expertise in the renewable energy sector and make a lasting positive impact.

The Australian Renewable Energy

Agency (ARENA) is a corporate Commonwealth entity. ARENA was established on 1 July 2012 under the Australian Renewable Energy Agency Act 2011 (the ARENA Act). ARENA has offices based in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne and we promote a hybrid adaptable working environment where we can.

📌 Chief Executive Officer (Sydney)
🏢 Australian Renewable Energy Agency
📍 Sydney