Key Responsibilities
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will oversee a range of enabling services that support large-scale operational delivery in a complex environment. This includes organizational governance and assurance, financial and human resource management, legal services, information technology, data capability, project and change management, disclosure and compliance, corporate regulation, and resource allocation.
The COO will also lead the Funding and Disclosure Reform Program, a significant transformation program with ambitious implementation timelines. This requires strategic leadership and organizational capability building to support the Australian Electoral Commission's (AEC) transition to a large-scale regulator.
Key responsibilities include:
* Leading the AEC's enabling services
* Leading the Funding and Disclosure Reform Program
* Strategic leadership and organizational capability building
* Complex stakeholder engagement and education
* Publicly representing the AEC in diverse forums nationally and internationally
The ideal candidate will have senior leadership experience, a proven track record of leadership within a dynamic public sector or regulatory environment, and extensive experience in a challenging operational environment. They will be able to create and maintain a high-performance culture, engage with senior stakeholders, and demonstrate exceptional communication skills.
The COO will work closely with the Electoral Commissioner and Deputy Electoral Commissioner to manage strategic, enterprise, and operational risks, enhance trust in the AEC, and maintain its reputation as a high-reliability organization.
This is a position of trust, requiring the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance to the level of Negative Vetting Level 2 or hold a current security clearance of appropriate level. The incumbent must also be able to provide assurances regarding potential conflicts of interest and personal financial affairs.
The AEC observes strict impartiality and independence in all electoral processes, and any person in this role must be neutral. Sensitivity to the needs of a diverse client base is essential.