Information Commissioner, Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC)

• Bring your expertise and thought leadership in privacy and information security and/or freedom of information
• Lead a highly engaged and committed independent statutory authority
• Influence best practice through collaboration and advocacy

The Organisation 

The Victorian Government seeks to appoint an outstanding leader to the position of Information Commissioner. OVIC seeks to build community trust by empowering Victorians to know and exercise their information rights.

OVIC is an independent integrity agency. It is the primary regulator and source of independent advice to the community and Victorian Government about how the public sector collects, uses and discloses information. OVIC is led by the Information Commissioner, who is supported by the Public Access Deputy Commissioner and Privacy and Data Protection Deputy Commissioner.

OVIC’s core functions include protecting information privacy rights, oversighting access to government-held information, advising on lawful information sharing, and promoting effective information security within government. Its goal is to foster a public sector culture that promotes access to information while ensuring its proper use and protection.

The Information Commissioner is responsible for the strategic and organisational leadership of OVIC with specific functions outlined in the Freedom of Information Act 1982 and Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014.

The Position

We are looking for a leader with demonstrated experience and exceptional capability in:

• Leadership: proven public sector leadership and management capabilities at a senior level, with a well-developed understanding of the operation of government and the public sector and the ability to think strategically.

• Relationship management: the ability to establish and maintain sound relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including the Victorian Government. The applicant will forge partnerships across business areas, functions and agencies and build trust through consistent actions, values and communication.
• Complex decision making and systems thinking: the ability to develop and implement processes and procedures that are in accordance with legislative requirements and to drive organisational and system performance to deliver better outcomes.
• Knowledge and experience in privacy and/or freedom of information: sound knowledge and proven expertise in privacy and information security and/or freedom of information processes in Victoria or a comparable jurisdiction.
• Financial skills: a financial mindset with an understanding of operating budgets and service delivery costs necessary to lead OVIC.
• Integrity, ethical standards and sound professional judgment: demonstrated ability to act with a high degree of integrity and ethical standards, promoting trust, respect and cooperation among OVIC staff and stakeholder.
• Promoting Inclusion: the ability to create and maintain a culture that supports and respects the individuality of others and recognises the benefits of diverse ideas and approaches; communicates well with, relates to and sees issues from the perspective of people from a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds.

The successful applicant is required to be able (eligible and suitable) to obtain Negative Level 1 security clearance and to maintain that level of clearance while in this role.

To apply – please click on ‘APPLY ONLINE’ using reference DOJvic1023 addressing your cover letter and resume to David Baber of Fisher Leadership.