About the Role

We are seeking a Manager, Evaluation to lead and manage a team responsible for delivering high-quality program evaluations across economic, agriculture, and regional funding programs. This role is pivotal in building evidence to inform future program design, investment and budget decisions, and policy development.

You will:

• Lead the development of evaluation and monitoring plans and outcomes measurement frameworks.
• Manage third-party evaluation providers and deliver process, outcome and economic evaluation reports.
• Support the annual Budget process through evidence-based insights, investment prioritisation and delivery of the annual Cabinet submission.
• Drive best practice evaluation and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with NSW Government guidelines and embed strong governance and risk management practices.
• Delivery of the Evaluation Community of Practice

What We’re Looking For

We need a strategic thinker and collaborative leader with:

• Proven experience in program evaluation and evidence-based decision-making.
• Expertise in the delivery of the annual budget process and/or experience in the NSW investment process.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills across government and industry.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Expertise in governance, risk management, and compliance frameworks.
• Leadership capability to inspire and develop a high-performing team.

Why Join Us?

• Make a real impact on regional communities and economic development.
• Work in a supportive, collaborative environment with flexible work options.
• Be part of a team that values innovation, integrity, and results.

Applying is easy! 
 
Submit your current Resume/CV and a Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience, and why you’re our ideal candidate. 

If you’d like to know more about the role, please click here to view the  Role Description

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Adam Bondar M 0439 021 774 E adam.bondar@dpird.nsw.gov.au

Applications close: 11:55pm Sunday 21^st December 2025.

Please note that DPIRD will be closed during the period 25 December 2025 to 11 January 2025 (inclusive). Recruitment process will recommence in January 2026, with interviews to take place in late-January 2026.

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

What to Expect Next  

After applying:  

• You’ll receive a confirmation email  
• We’ll review all applications once the ad closes  
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)  
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)  
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates   
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required. 
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months.  

About us – together, we are DPIRD  

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.  

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.  

The department brings together:  

• Local Land Services  
• NSW Resources  
• Agriculture and Biosecurity  
• Fisheries and Forestry  
• Regional Development and Delivery  

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. With nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.  

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.  

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion  

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.  

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer  

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.  

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.