Chief Information Officer

• Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC)
• Shape GRDC's digital future in a high-impact, hands-on leadership role
• Canberra based

About the Organisation
The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is an Australian statutory corporation with a compelling purpose: to invest in world-class research, development and extension that creates enduring profitability for Australia's grain growers.
Operating through a collaborative, partnership-driven model, working alongside CSIRO, universities, state agencies and industry, GRDC translates scientific innovation into real-world outcomes for growers across the country. It is a lean, values-led organisation where every investment decision matters and where mission and accountability go hand in hand.

About the Role
This is a pivotal moment for GRDC's technology capability. The groundwork has been laid, architectural principles are established and a new three-year IDT strategy is being finalised. Now GRDC needs the right leader to operationalise it.
Reporting to the General Manager Operations and CFO, the CIO will own the roadmap and drive delivery: leading cloud migration, modernising the investment management system, rationalising vendor contracts, shaping the organisation's AI strategy, and presenting confidently to the Board.
You will lead a small, capable internal team and a network of specialist partners, building trust and high performance while navigating a complex stakeholder environment. This is a role for someone who enjoys both the strategic and the hands-on, someone who will roll up their sleeves and get things done.

About You
You are an experienced technology leader who combines strategic vision with genuine delivery capability. You have led cloud migrations and enterprise systems transformations, and you know how to manage vendor relationships and contracts in resource-conscious environments.
Ideally you bring experience from the public sector or similarly complex, purpose-driven organisations, and engage with credibly with boards, executives and regulators. Just as important is your leadership style: non-hierarchical, genuinely collaborative, and focused on building the culture and capability of your team.
You will be drawn to GRDC's mission and understand the unique responsibility that comes with supporting Australian grain growers.

How to apply
Candidate information: Please click on the "Additional Information" button to download a copy of the Candidate Information Pack. For more information, please contact email publicsector@derwentsearch.com.au or call 02 9223 1855 quoting reference number: 34071.
To apply: Please provide a cover letter highlighting your suitability for the role and a resume by the due date.

Applications close: Sunday, 22 March 2026.