As Director, Regional Economic Development (Network), you will lead a high-performing, geographically dispersed team working directly with businesses, industry, and government to drive sustainable growth, investment, and job creation across the state.

If you’re a strategic leader who thrives on delivering tangible outcomes for communities, this role offers a unique platform to make a lasting impact.

• Open to all NSW locations with a Focus on Regional NSW
• Band 1 Director role with TRP starting at $225,628 per annum
• Temporary opportunity up to 30 June 2028

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is dedicated to growing primary industries and supporting vibrant, resilient regional economies. With a strong presence across regional NSW, our work focuses on delivering long-term benefits for communities, businesses, and industries.

As a key member of the Regional Economic Development leadership team, you will:

• Lead a statewide network of economic development specialists supporting business growth, investment attraction, and industry development
• Drive place-based and statewide initiatives that strengthen regional economies and create high-value jobs
• Translate government strategy into action, setting clear priorities and performance expectations for teams
• Provide strategic advice to senior executives on policy, programs, and regional service delivery reform
• Build and leverage partnerships across government, industry, and stakeholders to deliver impactful outcomes
• Champion collaboration and innovation across a diverse portfolio of economic development functions

This role is critical in enabling strong, connected regional economies and delivering outcomes aligned to government priorities.

We’re looking for an experienced executive leader who can operate with influence, credibility, and impact.

You will demonstrate:

• Proven leadership of complex, geographically dispersed teams delivering services and programs at scale
• Deep understanding of regional economic development and the drivers of growth in regional communities
• Strong ability to build strategic partnerships across government, industry, and stakeholders
• Experience influencing policy, strategy, and investment decisions at senior levels
• A track record of delivering measurable outcomes, including business growth, investment attraction, and job creation
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to translate complex strategy into clear action

Why join us?

• Make a real impact on the future of regional NSW
• Lead a high-performing network of ~70 staff across the state
• Work at the centre of government priorities shaping economic development
• Be part of a collaborative executive leadership team driving innovation and reform

Essential requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualifications or significant equivalent senior experience
• Current driver’s licence

To apply, please submit an updated CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience through the application portal.

Applications close: 11:55pm Sunday, 5 July 2026.

Please View the Role Description for more information. You may also contact Craig Jenkins on 0411 248 482 or craig.jenkins@dpird.nsw.gov.au for a confidential discussion on the role.

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.  

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.