At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape policies to improve outcomes for children and young people.
- Company: Join Ramsden Recruitment, a key player in child protection reform.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Make a lasting impact in a dynamic environment focused on child welfare.
- Why this job: Be a visionary leader driving innovation and building strong partnerships.
- Qualifications: Extensive leadership experience and a deep understanding of social policy.
Join to apply for the Director, Strategic Policy, Partnerships and Reform - DCP role at Ramsden Recruitment.
This range is provided by Ramsden Recruitment. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more. Base pay range A$230,000.00/yr - A$260,000.00/yr.
The Department for Child Protection (DCP) plays a key role in the protection of children, young people and their families within South Australia. DCP provides support to vulnerable children and young people, working to keep them safe from abuse and harm, and provide alternative care when living at home is no longer an option. Their vision is for all children and young people to grow up safe, healthy, connected and feeling loved so they reach their full potential.
About the role: DCP is undertaking a significant period of workplace transformation and reform. Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Director, Strategic Policy, Partnerships and Reform provides high-level leadership to shape and inform the future strategies direction of child protection in South Australia. The role is responsible for leading the design, delivery, and evaluation of system-wide policies, strategies, and reforms that improve outcomes for children, young people, and families. The Director drives evidence-based policy development and ensures alignment with government priorities and oversees the department’s contribution to state and national reform agendas. The role builds strong cross-sector partnerships, including with Aboriginal communities, government agencies, non-government organisations, and statutory authorities, to deliver integrated and sustainable solutions. Central to the role is ensuring that the voices of children and young people are embedded in all aspects of policy, programs and service design. The Director leads a multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation, and ensures robust governance, reporting and performance frameworks are in place to support the department’s reform agenda.
Key Accountabilities:
- Formulate and review child protection strategy, policy and reform initiatives informed by research, data, and evidence.
- Effective stakeholder engagement which facilitates collaboration and strong partnerships with the sector, Aboriginal communities and Ministries.
- Champion the voices of children and young people in all policies, services and reforms.
- Conduct research to inform whole-of-system strategic planning and maintain oversight of program initiatives.
- Lead the development of strategic programs that drive reform and improve outcomes for children, young people and families.
- Effective resource management, including grants administration, budget oversight, and identification of funding opportunities.
- Provide timely, trusted policy advice to executive and the Minister on emerging issues at both state and national levels.
- Raise awareness of child protection across the broader community.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
You will be:
- Extensive leadership experience in the public or community sector, with a proven track record of delivering reform and organisational change.
- Strong ability to initiate major policy initiatives, reform programs, and cross-sector partnerships.
- Deep understanding of government mechanisms, intergovernmental relations, and social policy environment.
- Exceptional interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at the highest levels.
- High-level expertise in project and program management, governance, financial oversight, and evidence-based decision-making.
- Proven commitment to improving outcomes for Aboriginal children and young people, with the ability to embed culturally responsive approaches across policy and practice.
For a visionary leader, this role offers the chance to make a lasting impact, driving innovation, building strong partnerships, and positioning the agency at the forefront of child protection reform.
Contact Bec Ramsden on 0405 503 332 for further information or apply today. Applications close COB Friday 31st October 2025.
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Management
Industries: Government Administration, Public Policy Offices, and Government Relations Services.
Director, Strategic Policy, Partnerships and Reform employer: Ramsden Recruitment
As an Independent Advocate for Children & Youth Rights in Adelaide, you will join a dedicated team committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable children and youth. Our work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth while ensuring that your voice is heard in advocating for systemic change. With a focus on independence and impartiality, this role offers a unique chance to influence child protection policies and practices in a supportive environment.
