Public Access Deputy Commissioner

The Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC) is an independent integrity agency acting as 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'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.OVIC seeks to appoint an accomplished executive to the position of Public Access Deputy Commissioner to embed a culture in the Victorian Public sector that promotes fair Public Access to information while ensuring its proper use and protection. The role reports to Mr Sean Morrison, recently appointed as the Victorian Information Commissioner.The Public Access Deputy Commissioner's function include:

• promoting understanding of the FOI Act;
• independently reviewing FOI decisions made by Victorian government agencies, Ministers and principal officers;
• receiving and dealing with FOI complaints;
• monitoring compliance with the professional standards; and
• providing advice, education and guidance to agencies in relation to the FOI Act.

The role leads to empower the community to both understand and exercise their information rights through accessible platforms, publications, and training materials to build resilience, knowledge and protection.We are looking for a leader with the following attributes:

• Knowledge of the workings of government and extensive experience working within freedom of information and other applicable legislation and regulations.
• Understanding of administrative decision making and processes, including exercising sound judgment and the appropriate exercise of discretion.
• Demonstrated ability to build effective relationships between government, senior executive management, community, business and non-government sectors.
• Proven capacity to influence; ability to engage and negotiate with stakeholders on strategic and sensitive issues related to government policy and provide expert and influential advice.
• The ability to lead, engage and foster a highly skilled team, within a professional services environment, while driving organisational performance.
• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, together with a contemporary knowledge and understanding of corporate business issues and practices, emerging public sector trends and risk management principles are critical to this role.

This is an outstanding opportunity for a collaborative, values driven professional to join a leadership team committed to accountability, responsiveness and building community trust by striving for consistent compliance, reducing risks, improving information governance in a data-driven age.All appointments to the office of the Information Commissioner are subject to employment screening conditions outlined in Australian Standards 4811:2022Initial enquiries may be directed in confidence to David Baber, Partner of Fisher Leadership onApplications close: 31 May 2024To apply - please go to fisherleadership.com and click on ‘APPLY ONLINE' using reference DOJpad0424 addressing your cover letter and resume to David Baber of Fisher Leadership.To obtain the position description visit www.fisherleadership.com/opportunities