Manager Investigations
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Job no: 510138
Work type: Ongoing full-time
Location: All of NSW
Categories: Governance, Human Resources and Recruitment, Legal and Justice, Regulatory and Compliance
Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to; gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation to submit an application. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.
The Manager Investigations leads a small team of Senior Investigators responsible for conducting complex, sensitive and confidential workplace investigations and professional standards matters across the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
Reporting to the Director, Professional Standards and Investigations, you will provide leadership, technical expertise and oversight to ensure that the Unit’s investigations are conducted consistently, fairly and in accordance with legislative requirements, procedural fairness principles and best practice investigation standards.
You will play a critical role in managing investigations involving alleged misconduct, serious wrongdoing, fraud, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and public interest disclosures. Working closely with a broad range of stakeholders, you will support effective triage, risk assessment, case management and reporting while contributing to the continuous improvement of investigation frameworks, policies and practices that promote integrity, accountability and respectful workplace behaviour across a geographically dispersed organisation.
As a trusted advisor to the Director and senior stakeholders, you will help identify systemic issues and emerging risks, providing practical recommendations that strengthen workplace culture, governance and organisational capability.
You are an experienced complaint handling and investigation professional, with a strong track record conducting and leading workplace investigations across a broad range of areas (including complex matters) and managing teams in a public sector, regulatory or similarly complex environment. You have demonstrated sound judgement, resilience and professionalism, together with the ability to navigate highly sensitive matters involving competing priorities, stakeholder complexity and reputational risk.
You are recognised for your ability to lead investigators, assess evidence objectively and provide clear, practical advice that supports fair and defensible decision-making. You thrive in environments where integrity, confidentiality and procedural fairness are critical and are committed to fostering a positive workplace culture through high-quality investigation and professional standards practices.
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Demonstrated experience leading and conducting complex workplace investigations, professional standards matters and public sector complaints, including assessment, evidence gathering, interviewing, procedural fairness, report writing and making defensible recommendations.
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Strong knowledge of relevant NSW public sector legislation, frameworks and investigative practice, with the ability to manage sensitive and high-risk matters involving confidentiality, stakeholder complexity, reputational risk and trauma-informed approaches.
Please note, prior knowledge of DPIRD policies is not expected.
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Relevant tertiary qualifications in law, investigations, human resources, industrial relations, public administration or a related discipline, or equivalent demonstrated professional experience.
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 Ruth Barlow on 0458 007 477 or via ruth.barlow@dpird.nsw.gov.au
Applications close: Monday 7th September 2026 at 11:55pm AEST
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
Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an email confirmation. After the advertisement closes, all applications will be reviewed by the hiring manager and selection panel. If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview—this could be in person, over the phone, or via video. You may also be asked to complete role-related tasks, such as a written assessment, skills test, or psychometric assessment. Reference checks will be conducted for candidates progressing to the final stages.
The successful applicant may also be required to undergo a police check, health assessment, and other relevant checks as part of the recruitment process.
A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next eighteen (18) months.
About us – together, we are DPIRD
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:
We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. With the majority of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.
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.
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.
Role Description
Advertised: AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: AUS Eastern Standard Time
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