Manager Strategic Policy

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Lead strategic policy and influence government decisions that deliver lasting environmental and community outcomes for NSW.
• 2 opportunities:
• 1 ongoing full-time role (35 hours per week)
• 1 temporary full-time role (35 hours per week) until December 2027
• Parramatta location, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $157,257 to $172,589 + super

Our Strategic Policy and Cabinet Branch is seeking to appoint two Manager Strategic Policy professionals to lead high-impact policy development and reform at the centre of government. This is a unique opportunity to shape and influence policy that drives the NSW Government’s priorities, working across portfolios and with senior decision-makers to guide complex ideas from early development through to Cabinet and Parliament.

These opportunities include one ongoing role and one temporary role to December 2027 with potential for conversion to ongoing employment.

As a Manager Strategic Policy you will:

• manage a team of policy professionals, collaborate with a broad range of stakeholders and help shape outcomes across DCCEEW's portfolio areas
• lead complex policy projects, provide strategic advice to senior decision-makers, and work across government to progress policy and reform initiatives in a fast-paced and evolving environment
• work closely with executives to provide clear, evidence-based advice and navigate complex government processes with confidence
• champion best practice policy design, strengthening capability across the division and ensuring initiatives are effective, transparent and deliver meaningful results.

• You bring a strong focus on quality, ensuring policy development is underpinned by sound research, robust analysis and a deep understanding of legislative and strategic frameworks.
• You have a strong track record of delivering high-quality advice in complex government environments. You bring deep experience in developing and leading policy and reform initiatives, underpinned by sound research, critical thinking and a clear understanding of legislative and strategic frameworks.
• You thrive when working across portfolios and building trusted relationships to influence stakeholders, reconcile competing priorities and deliver cohesive policy outcomes.
• You have a strong understanding of the NSW Government context relating to climate change, energy, environment, heritage, or water matters and have experience in providing policy, strategic and operational advice and recommendations at a senior level. Your ability to interpret the broader economic, social and political landscape will allow you to anticipate challenges, identify opportunities and drive outcomes that align with whole-of-government priorities.
• Your leadership style is collaborative and outcomes-focused, enabling you to guide your team through complex policy challenges while maintaining a strong focus on delivery. You are a supportive manager with a strong focus on building a positive and collaborative team culture.

• Experience and in depth understanding of the formulation of government policy, policy processes and strategic directions.
• Experienced in leading a team of policy professionals and the provision of policy advice.

• Degree or equivalent experience in government policy.

For more information read the full Role Description:  Manager Strategic Policy

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. 

Should you require further information about the role please contact Hannah Lloyd via Hannah.Lloyd@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 02 9585 6523.

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Gabriella Schulzer on 9585 6521 (please mention reference number 552992).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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Advertised: 11 Sep 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 27 Sep 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time

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