Policy Manager

Policy Manager Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions VIC – Melbourne VIC Fixed term / Ongoing role: Ongoing Usual hours of work: Full time (flexibility may be available) Usual work location: 121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne (flexibility may be available) The Role The Policy Manager plays a key leadership role in the Strategy & National Reform Unit, shaping Victoria's contribution to national skills reform and leading the development of strategic policy for a responsive, integrated and future-focused vocational education and training (VET) system. Reporting to the Manager, Policy in the National Reform team, the role leads a team responsible for developing high-quality policy advice, coordinating cross-government input into national forums and supporting major reform initiatives. Working closely with internal and external stakeholders, including the Commonwealth, other jurisdictions and sector partners, the Policy Manager ensures Victoria's priorities are well represented in national negotiations. The role requires strong policy expertise, strategic thinking and influential communication to navigate complex policy environments and deliver reforms that improve outcomes for learners, providers and industry. Provide authoritative expert advice on complex policy and strategic issues within the area of responsibility. Identify and respond to new and emerging strategic issues impacting the operating environment. Develop briefs on highly complex issues, providing options for executive and organisational decision-making. Use knowledge of government structures, processes and culture to develop policies, programs and project initiatives. Develop policy frameworks aligned to organisational priorities and reform agendas. Explain highly complex concepts, ideas and issues clearly to executive and non-expert audiences. The Team The position of Policy Manager forms part of the Policy and Strategy Branch within the Skills and TAFE Group. The Branch leads system and strategic policy settings for Victoria's VET system, monitoring performance and trends, managing financial oversight and coordinating portfolio strategy through Cabinet and budget processes. It works closely with the Commonwealth, other jurisdictions, universities and sector stakeholders to influence national reform across tertiary education and deliver coordinated, high-quality policy advice across the Skills and TAFE portfolio. About You You are an experienced policy leader with strong strategic and analytical skills and a deep understanding of the VET landscape. You bring experience working in complex, cross-jurisdictional environments and can lead high-priority workstreams while managing and supporting others to perform at their best. You communicate with influence, build trusted relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders, and foster collaboration across organisations. You are adaptable, forward-looking and motivated to deliver impactful policy solutions that support a future-ready training system. Further Information For a confidential discussion, please contact Harley Flynn at •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••@ecodev.vic.gov.au. The Department is committed to creating and maintaining a child safe organisation. We have zero tolerance of child abuse and are committed to taking the necessary steps to protect children from harm by adopting a preventative, proactive and participatory approach to child safety in accordance with the Child Safe Standards. Successful candidates will be required to undergo a National Police Records Check prior to commencing employment with the Department. Applications close at 23:59pm on 11 January 2026. How to Apply Please click the ‘Apply Now' button. As part of the application process, you will need to provide a copy of your resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria outlined in the position description. #J-18808-Ljbffr