Executive Director, National AI Centre

• Support and accelerate Australia's Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry.
• SES Band 2 reporting to Deputy Secretary
• Based in Canberra, Melbourne, or Sydney.

The National Artificial Intelligence Centre (NAIC) was established in 2021 to support and accelerate Australia's Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry. It is the primary vehicle for the Australian Government’s National AI Plan goal to spread the benefits of AI. The NAIC, through its many programs and its platform, www.ai.gov.au, is charged with delivering the safe and effective adoption of AI for Australian industry, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and not-for-profits.

As the Executive Director, you will lead a highly dedicated and motivated industry-focused team to deliver on the objectives of NAIC including leading the transformation of Australia’s AI ecosystem and substantially contribute to the Government’s National AI Plan to position Australia as one of the global leaders in developing and adopting trusted, secure and responsible AI.
You will work closely with other Senior Executives, Heads of Division and Heads of Agencies from across the portfolio to ensure a connected and integrated department, with reduced silos and a creative and collaborative approach to problem solving.

We are looking for an exceptional industry leader for NAIC to drive the transformation of Australia’s AI ecosystem. Our ideal candidate will have the gravitas to lead the NAIC, engage in technical and strategy conversations on AI and work closely with other industry leaders to drive productivity, adoption and uplift safe and responsible AI practices in Industry. Our candidate will also have an important role in supporting the department’s strategic positioning across government and effectively representing portfolio perspectives to position Australia as one of the global leaders in developing and adopting productive, secure and responsible AI. As a key leader and representative of the department, your common sense, political nous and ability to navigate ambiguity and uncertainty will be key to success in this role.

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 kwhittaker@derwentsearch.com.au or call 02 9223 1855 quoting reference number: 35089.
To apply: Please provide a cover letter highlighting your suitability for the role and a resume by the due date.

Applications close: Sunday, 29 November 2026.