Job Title

The Office for Early Childhood Development has been formed with a clear mandate: to create a fairer and better future for all children in South Australia by implementing the accepted recommendations of the Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care.As the steward of the early childhood development system, the Office will act on government''s behalf, and work in collaboration with the sector, to organise and connect the system to reduce developmental vulnerability.This includes providing universal access to quality, teacher-led preschool from the age of 3, growing and sustaining a quality early childhood workforce, and greater supports and connected services for families in the 1000 days of a childs life.About this roleThe Program Lead, Outreach and Pathways will lead strategic policy development and oversee planning and implementation of high-profile priority projects, in alignment with existing and emerging objectives. This position will deliver complex policy analysis, expert advice, high level papers and briefings, and program delivery to support improved preschool participation for under-represented cohorts and disadvantaged families.The Program Lead, Outreach and Pathways will negotiate with and influence diverse stakeholders to achieve policy and program objectives for and on behalf of the Office for Early Childhood Development.Your Key ResponsibilitiesLead the development of specialist advice to ensure successful development and implementation of the early childhood development agenda.Lead the design of state-wide policy and research proposals to support the advancement of the early childhood development agenda.Manage a high-performing team to establish goals and objectives, promoting a culture of continuous improvement.Provide high-level liaison and consultation services across private and public sector agencies with both internal and external stakeholders.Lead critical strategic initiatives that influence and guide the achievement of South Australias early childhood development priorities.About youYou will bring extensive experience in developing, implementing and evaluating complex policies, solutions, plans and strategies, supported by strong communication skills to prepare reports, present concepts and complex documents clearly while developing strong networks to achieve shared objectives. Your analysis and evaluation skills will be critical to implementing policy in a complex reform environment.To be successful in this role, we are looking for someone who brings:Research and Analytics: high level analytical and research skills and an ability to undertake objective analysis and evaluate complex information.Policy Development: ability to identify problems requiring public policy intervention and proven ability to use creative, strategic and critical thinking skills.Strategic leadership: Ability to operate within broad guidelines and exercise significant levels of independent judgement including the ability to motivate others to achieve outcomes within a productive team environment.Information analysis and provision: ability to interpret and apply legislation; analyse, evaluate and present complex information including statistical data to support policy development.Coordination: Proven experience in planning, developing, implementing and coordinating a range of programs, projects and services to support government policy directions.A role with real influence and impact in government policy.Opportunities for professional development and career growth within the public sectorWork with senior officials across government and early childhood sectors.Be part of an agency with a clear mission to improve the lives of South Australias children and families.Access to valuable salary sacrifice benefits like car leases, portable electronic devices, mobile phones, airline lounge memberships, self-education expenses, and more. Ask us about how you can make your salary go further working at the OECD.Access to flexible working arrangements to get that work life balance.Application Instructions and InformationApplications should be made through the IWorkForSA website.Applications close: 18 February 2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr