Applications have closed
Executive Director, Professional Standards Authority
- Operate as Chief Executive and lead the Authority’s strategic direction
- Report directly to the Commissioner and the Professional Standards Councils
- Drive cultural and strategic transformation across jurisdictions
- Lead a high-impact national regulator with a mandate to uplift professional standards and strengthen consumer protection across Australia.
The organisation:
The Professional Standards Authority (PSA) is an independent national regulator operating on behalf of the Professional Standards Councils of Australia, within the NSW Department of Customer Service.
The PSA oversees professional associations and frameworks that promote integrity, competence, and consumer confidence across Australia’s professions.
The opportunity:
This is a unique opportunity to lead a national regulator with a strong reform agenda and broad national reach to deliver meaningful public impact. The Executive Director will operate as the Chief Executive of the PSA, driving strategic direction, cultural uplift, and operational excellence across a complex, multi-jurisdictional environment. The role will shape the Authority’s long-term strategy to deliver on its legislative mandate to improve professional standards and strengthen consumer confidence in professional services.
Reporting to the Commissioner of Fair Trading/Deputy Secretary, Fair Trading and Regulatory Services, as well as the Combined Australian Government Professional Standards Councils, you will guide the Authority’s national strategy, strengthen relationships with Ministers and industry leaders, and deliver thought leadership in professional standards, governance, and risk management. This is a high-impact role offering the chance to influence national policy, regulatory reform, and consumer protection at scale.
Key priorities include:
- Strategic Leadership: Set direction and deliver on legislative and regulatory mandates
- Governance & Boards: Report to and advise boards and Ministers across jurisdictions
- Cultural Uplift: Lead transformation and build a high-performing, values-driven team
- Legal & Regulatory Expertise: Apply deep knowledge of professional standards legislation
- Stakeholder Engagement: Influence policy and build partnerships across government and industry
About you:
This role requires a leader who can engage and inspire diverse stakeholders, champion innovation, and ensure the PSA continues to deliver on its vision of professional excellence for the public good. The ideal candidate will be a strategic and visionary leader with deep expertise in governance, law and regulation. You bring executive-level experience in managing complex organisations or regulatory environments, with strong political acumen and the ability to influence at the highest levels of government and industry.
You are known for your collaborative leadership style and ability to inspire and lead values-driven teams. Additionally, you have exceptional communication and negotiation skills with a track record of delivering meaningful reform and cultural transformation. Relevant tertiary qualifications in law, public administration, or a related field are essential.
How to Apply:
For a confidential discussion or role related questions, please contact Felicity Stalley or Jess Lewy of The Orchard Talent Group at Log in to view email. To apply please submit your current CV and a cover letter.
Applications close Sunday, 16 November 2025 at 9:59am
Visit the Capability Application Tool to prepare for the recruitment process by accessing practice application and interview questions based on the focus capabilities listed in the role description.
Careers at Department of Customer Service
A career at the Department of Customer Service (DCS) gives you the opportunity to help improve government services and be part of reform that benefits people across NSW. We are focused on delivering excellent customer service, digital transformation, and regulatory reform. Come join us and influence the future of our great state.
Belong in our diverse and inclusive workplace
The strength of our workforce lies in its diversity and embracing difference, while the key to our success is leveraging the contributions of employees with different backgrounds and perspectives.
You can view our full diversity and inclusion statement here.
We want you to bring your best self to this application process. If you have any support or access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in this selection process (including an alternate format of the application form) please contact Log in to view email or 02 9494 8351.
