The Cabinet Office
Associate Director, Shaping Futures
You. At the centre of big ideas.
Seeking a strategic policy thinker passionate about delivering unique, cross sector research and advice on long-term challenges- Join a multi-disciplinary team at the centre of government applying strategic foresight to navigate key government priorities
- Ongoing, Clerk Grade 11/12 ($149,739 - $173,174) role based in Sydney CBD
About the Role
Shaping Futures is one of Australia’s leading government foresight teams. We lead the delivery of cross-sector strategic projects through comprehensive research, data analytics, networked engagement and design practices to empower government in anticipating emerging opportunities and challenges. We are a highly interdisciplinary team with diverse skills and capabilities who are looking for our next team member who reflects these attributes.
Operating at the intersection of policy development, strategic foresight, and systems thinking, this role concentrates on projects, programs, and stakeholder engagements with a transformative impact. Join us in driving this leading function and capability at the heart of government.
To learn more about the role please review the Role Description.
We're Looking For
- Strategic Foresight and Policy Influence: Ability to apply strategic foresight within public sector decision making, supporting leaders in understanding and responding to uncertainties
- Strategic Thinking and Innovative Applied Research: Demonstrated ability to think laterally and creatively, explore divergent perspectives and plausible futures, and communicate complex concepts clearly to a range of stakeholders
- Adaptative Attitude and Growth Mindset: Comfortable with building bespoke approaches and solutions and a willingness to be curious and continually acquire new skills and capabilities
- Sound Judgement and Stakeholder Management: Proven capacity to exercise judgement, humility and initiative when navigating complex issues with diverse and sometimes conflicting stakeholder perspectives
- Drive for Impact and Systems Change: Strong self-motivation and commitment to improving outcomes for communities through enduring challenges and contributing to system level transformation
- Delivery in Dynamic Environments: Experience delivering high-quality projects in fast-paced, high pressure setting with a track record of managing multiple priorities efficiently and accurately
We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply.
Why Join Us?
- Flexible Working: Broad range of flexible working arrangements
- Career Development: Ongoing learning through expert-led sessions, online training, and professional development opportunities
- Work-Life Balance: Flex time accrual for extra hours worked (for non-executive roles) based on a 35-hour standard week
- Wellbeing Support: Access to employee assistance program, fitness passport program, and wellbeing initiatives
- Inclusive Culture: Staff-led networks including Aboriginal Staff Advisory Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Network, and Young Professionals Network
How to Apply
Click ‘Apply Online’ and submit your application including:
- A resume detailing relevant knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 5 pages)
- A cover letter addressing how you meet the requirements of the role (maximum 2 pages)
Closing date: Sunday, 24 August 2025 (9:59 AM)
Salary: Clerk Grade 11/12. Package includes base salary ($149,739 - $173,174) plus superannuation (12%) and leave loading.
Hiring Manager: Scott Perugini Kelly, Director, Strategic Foresight via email at scott.perugini-kelly@tco.nsw.gov.au. Please email any relevant enquires to the hiring manager.
About The Cabinet Office
Leading policy, strategy and integrity from the heart of government
The Cabinet Office (TCO) enables robust Cabinet decision-making by ensuring policies and proposals submitted for consideration are of the highest quality and in line with government priorities. Learn more about the department and career at The Cabinet Office..
Our Commitment
We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and other diverse communities.
The Cabinet Office acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work and live. We pay respect to Ancestors and Elders past and present. We recognise and learn from the strengths of First Nations peoples of New South Wales and their continuing connection to, and unique cultural and spiritual relationship with, Country.
Additional Information
Reasonable Adjustments: The selection process will include assessment techniques to determine your suitability. You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage by indicating in pre-screening questions, contacting the Talent Team at PCT@premiersdepartment.nsw.gov.au, or reaching out to the hiring manager.
Talent Pool: A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process. If eligible, you may be contacted for ongoing and temporary opportunities in the same role or grade that become available over an 18-month period.