Chief Plant Protection Officer

About the role

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is recruiting a Chief Plant Protection Officer for its Biosecurity and Food Safety division. The role provides state and national leadership in plant pest and disease prevention and management programs that protect industry productivity and market access for NSW producers. It is a Senior Executive Band 1 position with a salary of $240,651 to $266,345 inclusive of superannuation.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and leadership to NSW's plant biosecurity and product integrity programs, reducing the impact of pests, diseases and residues on the economy, environment and community.
• Hold delegated statutory powers as the Hazard Owner for plant biosecurity incidents and emergencies, including issuing emergency orders, establishing control zones and setting conditions on the movement of goods.
• Work with other Directors to develop and deliver a science and research strategy aligned with national priorities.
• Represent DPIRD on state and national forums and build strategic partnerships with industry.
• Build preparedness and early detection capability alongside managing active incidents, and help shape national reform of how biosecurity response costs are shared between government and industry.
• Lead a stable, experienced and technically strong team, with availability outside standard hours for urgent biosecurity issues.

Required profile

• A strong technical or agricultural background; prior biosecurity experience is favourable but not essential, provided there has been exposure to biosecurity risk in agriculture, production or a related research setting.
• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant science, or substantial demonstrated equivalent experience.
• Proven leadership reputation in a field related to biosecurity, with significant experience bringing together multiple disciplines.
• Skilled negotiator and collaborator, comfortable reaching practical, risk-based outcomes rather than blanket restrictions.
• Able to explain complex technical issues clearly and credibly to government, industry and the community.

Applications close on Sunday 1 November 2026. Candidates must submit a cover letter and a resume; a police check, health assessment and other assessments may be required.