EL1 Assistant Director, Human Resources

The opportunity

The Assistant Director, Human Resources supports the delivery of strategic and operational human resource services that strengthen workforce capability, organisational performance and workplace culture across the Office.

Working closely with the Director, Human Resources and the Director Agency Expansion, the role provides strategic and operational advice on complex workforce matters and leads the delivery of workforce initiatives, policies, programs and projects. The position maintains responsibility for one or more specialist human resource portfolios while contributing broadly across the employee lifecycle and the delivery of HR services.

Operating with a high degree of independence, judgement and accountability, the Assistant Director manages complex workforce matters, contributes to organisational decision-making and supports the continuous improvement of HR policies, practices and services. As a senior member of a small team, the role is a key HR position and works collaboratively across the Office to achieve organisational outcomes.

Please note, this position is Canberra-based with opportunity to negotiate flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working arrangements; however, the majority of the work will need to be conducted at the Canberra office.

Key responsibilities for an Assistant Director, Human Resources include:

• Provide strategic and operational trusted advice to managers and senior leaders on complex workforce, organisational and people management matters.
• Lead the delivery of one or more specialist HR portfolios and contribute to broader HR service delivery across the organisation. This may include leading the Recruitment, Learning and Development, WHS, Employment Relations, HR strategy and reporting functions.
• Develop, implement and review workforce strategies, policies, programs and initiatives that support organisational priorities and legislative compliance.
• Manage complex and sensitive workforce matters, providing risk-based advice and practical solutions whist considering the strategic implications.
• Analyse workforce information, trends and emerging issues to inform strategic decision-making and organisational planning.
• Build and maintain strong and productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Operate effectively in an environment characterised by ambiguity, change and competing priorities, demonstrating initiative, adaptability and sound judgement.
• Contribute to the consideration and adoption of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to support workforce capability and improve HR service delivery.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive and respectful workplace culture consistent with APS and OIGIS values.

Leadership and team management responsibilities

• Provide leadership, supervision and guidance to Human Resources team members.
• Coach and develop staff, building capability and supporting professional growth.
• Provide quality assurance and oversight of HR advice, projects and deliverables.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Demonstrated leadership experience in the delivery of human resource services and workforce initiatives.
• Significant HR generalist capability, complemented by expertise in one or more specialist HR disciplines.
• Experience providing strategic advice and managing complex or sensitive workforce matters.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor and develop staff and build a high-performing team culture.
• Highly developed communication, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, influencing and relationship management skills.
• Sound judgement and the ability to deliver outcomes in environments characterised by complexity, ambiguity and change.
• A collaborative and adaptable approach, with a willingness to contribute broadly across HR priorities in a small agency environment.

Essential skills

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret Positive Vetting (TSPV) security clearance.

Highly desirable qualifications and experience

• Tertiary qualifications in Human Resources, Employment Relations, Business or a related discipline.
• Interest in emerging workforce trends and technologies, including artificial intelligence.