The Senior Director, Office of the Chief Executive Officer (OCEO) plays a critical role within the Women's and Children's Hospital Network (WCHN) as a strategic leader and a principal advisor to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on corporate governance, Ministerial and Departmental engagement, Parliamentary processes, and delivery of Government priorities and election commitments. The Senior Director, OCEO ensures that WCHN operates with mature governance systems, robust assurance mechanisms, and strong alignment to whole‑of‑government policy, legislative and Cabinet directions.

Integral to advancing the WCHN's mission in South Australia, the Senior Director, OCEO, ensures strong alignment with governmental health policies, ministerial priorities and whole of government directions. Operating in a complex and dynamic environment, the Senior Director, OCEO leads strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiencies, strengthen corporate governance, and fosters stakeholder relationships critical for advancing public health services and improving the wellbeing of women, children, and young people across the state.

In addition to leadership of the OCEO, the Senior Director, OCEO provides executive support to other senior leaders and the Board within the WCHN. This includes, enhancing communication channels, and fostering collaboration across divisions to achieve shared objectives. By aligning operational activities with the CEO's vision and government priorities, the Senior Director, OCEO plays a crucial role in effectively implementing healthcare initiatives, supporting delivery against government commitments and enabling a high-performing organisation capable of delivering high-quality services and promoting health equity for women, children, and young people throughout South Australia.

Key responsibilities of the Senior Director, OCEO, include managing and coordinating WCHN’s interface with the Minister and Minister’s Office, the Department for Health and Wellbeing and other key government stakeholders. This includes supporting the CEO in interactions with the Minister and senior departmental officials. The role also has responsibility for budget management within the OCEO, including performance monitoring to ensure alignment with strategic priorities.

The Senior Director, OCEO provides strategic guidance to the CEO through rigorous analysis, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations aligned to health sector priorities. The role will establish and foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organisations, and leverage these partnerships to enhance collaboration, resource mobilisation, and advocacy efforts in support of health equity, accessibility and outcomes.

The Senior Director, OCEO also leads the Media and Communications Team including media relations and crisis communications, to reinforce WCHN's commitment to improving health outcomes for the region's women, children, and young people. These efforts align messaging with governmental health priorities to maintain public trust and credibility.

Ministerial and DHW Liaison

Serve as the primary point of coordination for WCHN’s interface with the Minister’s Office and the Department of Health and Wellbeing (DHW):

• Lead the team and oversee all Ministerial, Cabinet and Parliamentary business, including briefing notes, submissions, correspondence, Question Time briefs, Estimates preparation, and response coordination
• Ensure accuracy, timeliness and strategic alignment of all correspondence provided to the Minister and DHW, reflecting Government priorities and sensitivities.
• Maintain strong, trusted relationships with Ministerial advisers, senior DHW executives and central agencies, facilitating proactive engagement and the effective resolution of issues.
• Provide authoritative advice to the CEO and Executive on Government policy directions, emerging issues, political context and stakeholder impacts
• Ensure the monitoring and delivery of election commitments and Government priorities, including tracking milestones, risks and performance against agreed outcomes.
• Advocate for WCHN's interests and priorities within government forums, ensuring alignment with ministerial objectives and priorities.

Governance and Secretariat

Lead a contemporary, high-maturity governance framework that underpins organisational performance, accountability and compliance:

• Design, implement and continuously improve corporate governance frameworks, ensuring alignment with legislative requirements, SA Health policy, and public sector best practice.
• Provide expert oversight of Board and Executive governance processes, ensuring high‑quality papers, clear recommendations, and effective decision‑making.
• Act as principal advisor to the CEO and Board on governance obligations, risk, probity and assurance.
• Ensure robust systems are in place for tracking, monitoring and reporting strategic decisions, actions and risks, including alignment to Government priorities.
• Maintain oversight of delegations, compliance frameworks, audit responses and risk management systems.
• Drive a culture of accountability, transparency and continuous improvement across governance practices.

Strategic Support to CEO

Provide comprehensive support to the CEO:

• Oversee the CEO's schedule, appointments, and communications, ensuring efficient workflow and strategic alignment with organisational priorities.
• Prepare briefing materials, presentations, and reports for the CEO to facilitate informed decision-making and communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Act as a strategic advisor to the CEO, offering insights, analysis, and recommendations on organisational strategy, operational effectiveness, and leadership priorities.
• Provide expert advice on politically sensitive and high‑risk issues, including reputational risk, media exposure and Government implications.
• Ensure organisational strategies and initiatives are aligned with Cabinet decisions, State priorities and DHW system strategies.
• Integrate policy, operational and political intelligence to inform executive decision-making.
• Ensure the CEO is fully supported in Parliamentary, Ministerial and Cabinet-related engagements, including preparation for high‑stakes discussions and public accountability forums.
• Coordinate enterprise responses to Government requests, priority initiatives and urgent issues, ensuring consistency and quality control.
• Act as a central point of assurance that information provided externally is accurate, consistent and defensible.

Partnerships and Advocacy

Cultivate and manage relationships with key stakeholders:

• Develop partnerships with healthcare providers, community organisations, advocacy groups, and philanthropic entities to advance WCHN's mission and strategic goals.
• Advocate for healthcare policies, funding initiatives, and legislative changes that promote health equity, accessibility, and improved outcomes for women, children, and young people.
• Leverage partnerships and alliances to mobilise resources, enhance advocacy efforts, and amplify WCHN's impact on public health and community wellbeing.

Media and Communications

Maintain consistency, clarity, and excellence in external communications:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy that enhances WCHN's brand reputation and visibility.
• Manage media relations, including proactive engagement, crisis communications, and strategic messaging to align with governmental health priorities and organisational objectives.
• Ensure transparent and timely dissemination of information to stakeholders through various communication channels, fostering public trust and support for WCHN's healthcare initiatives.

ESSENTIAL

Educational/Vocational Qualifications

• Tertiary qualifications in Healthcare Management, Business Administration, Law, Political Science, Communications or a closely related discipline.

DESIRABLE

Educational/Vocational Qualifications

• Postgraduate qualifications (MBA, MHA, MPH or related).

ESSENTIAL
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​Personal Abilities/Aptitudes/Skills:

• Strong leadership and strategic management skills, with the ability to provide high-level advice and guidance.
• Exceptional political acumen, analytical and critical thinking abilities, capable of conducting thorough analysis, risk assessments, and developing evidence-based strategies.
• Proven ability to navigate political environments and engage with government agencies, advocacy groups, and community organisations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, adept at building relationships and influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills, effectively managing diverse stakeholder interests.
• High resilience and adaptability, capable of working effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Strong commitment to compassionate leadership, professional integrity, ethics, and accountability.
• Exceptional strategic thinking abilities, with the capability to pivot and retain comprehensive information in rapidly changing environments.

Experience

• Significant experience in a senior leadership role within the public sector, preferably within a hospital network or similar healthcare setting.
• Extensive experience managing Ministerial and Parliamentary processes, including Estimates, Question Time, Cabinet submissions and complex briefing environments.
• Proven experience in leading corporate governance and Board secretariat functions at a senior executive level.
• Experience working closely with central agencies and navigating whole‑of‑government processes and accountabilities.
• Demonstrated experience in providing strategic advice and support to executive leadership, including board governance and stakeholder management and implementing governance frameworks and protocols.
• Experience managing budgets, resources, and operational efficiencies preferably within a healthcare context.
• Knowledge of government health policies, regulatory frameworks, and healthcare system dynamics.
• Expertise in crafting media and communications strategy, key messages, press releases, and public statements that align with organisational goals and values.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of SA Health governance processes and expectations, including relevant policy and legislation, and workflows between agencies, central agencies and the Minister’s Office.
• Knowledge of healthcare policy, regulations, and accreditation standards, with an ability to navigate and influence healthcare legislation and policy-making processes.
• Knowledge of healthcare management principles, including quality improvement, patient safety, and clinical governance.
• Familiarity with data analytics, and complex evidence-based practice.
• Understanding of governance frameworks and protocols, particularly regarding board governance and executive support functions.
• Awareness of current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the healthcare sector, focusing on women's and children's health issues.
• Expertise in financial management and budgeting, including cost control, resource allocation, and financial reporting.
• Familiarity with crisis management and emergency preparedness.
• Familiarity with reputation management practices and strategies to maintain and enhance an organisation's public image.
• Awareness of media law and regulations, including privacy and confidentiality issues related to healthcare communication.
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  ​DESIRABLE

Personal Abilities/Aptitudes/Skills

• Experience in leading and developing multidisciplinary teams, promoting a culture of collaboration and excellence.
• Crisis management and communications skills, including media relations and public relations strategies.

Experience

• Experience in policy development, advocacy, and public health promotion.
• Background in academic research, publications, or contributions to healthcare literature.

Knowledge

• Understanding of South Australian Parliamentary processes, Cabinet systems, and Ministerial accountability frameworks
• Understanding healthcare financing mechanisms, including public funding models and private sector partnerships.
• Knowledge of health disparities and social determinants of health affecting women, children, and young people.
• Understanding of cultural sensitivity and diversity issues in healthcare service delivery.
• Knowledge of international healthcare standards and best practices relevant to women's and children's health.

Direct Reports:

• Director Corporate Governance
• Director Media and Communications

Reports to:

• Reports to Chief Executive Officer, WCHN.

Internal Relationships

• Participates as a member of the WCHN Executive Team.
• Works collaboratively with the WCHN Executive Team:
  • Chief Operating Officer
  • Executive Director, Nursing and Midwifery and Consumer Experience
  • Executive Director, Medical Services and Clinical Governance
  • Executive Director, People and Culture
  • Chief Finance and Commercial Officer
  • Executive Director Sub-Acute and Allied Health
  • Executive Director, Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing
  • Executive Director, New Women’s and Children’s Hospital Project
  • Executive Director, Research, innovation and Digital Health
  • Executive Director, Strategy, Transformation and Partnerships
• WCHN Governing Board
• Senior Officers throughout the Network, other Local Health Networks, and the Department for Health and Wellbeing.

External Relationships

Minister's Office, other government agencies, media and key community stakeholder organisations.

• Ensuring governance processes and bureaucracy are as streamlined and efficient as possible while still robust and in line with legislative and policy requirements.
• Effectively managing complex and sensitive issues in a dynamic environment with competing priorities and diverse stakeholder interests.
• Building and sustaining an extensive network of contacts to optimise outcomes for the organisation.
• Navigating regulatory and compliance requirements to ensure all WCHN operations adhere to healthcare regulations, accreditation standards, and legal mandates.
• Managing and safeguarding WCHN’s reputation by responding appropriately to critical incidents and media scrutiny, while balancing transparency with patient confidentiality and legal considerations.

Please discuss with HardyGroup Principal Search Consultant

Service Location: SA - North Adelaide

Delegations: Level 3 Financial delegation and Level 2 Human Resources delegations as per WCHN Delegations.

Classification: SAES 1

Budget: $6.2 million

FTE: Approx 25

Performance Development:

The incumbent will be required to participate in the organisation's Performance Review and Development Program, which will include a regular review of the incumbent's performance against the responsibilities and key result areas associated with their position and a requirement to demonstrate appropriate behaviours that reflect a commitment to SA Health values and strategic directions.

General Requirements:

Managers and staff are required to work in accordance with the Code of Ethics for South Australian Public Sector, Directives, Determinations and Guidelines, and legislative requirements including but not limited to:

• Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA) and when relevant WHS Defined Officers must meet due diligence requirements.
• Return to Work Act 2014 (SA), facilitating the recovery, maintenance or early return to work of employees with work related injury / illness.
• Meeting immunisation requirements as outlined by the Addressing vaccine preventable disease: Occupational assessment, screening and vaccination policy
• Equal Employment Opportunities (including prevention of bullying, harassment and intimidation).
• Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017 (SA) ‘Notification of Abuse or Neglect’.
• Addressing Disability Discrimination.
• Independent Commissioner Against Corruption Act 2012 (SA).
• Information Privacy Principles Instruction.
• Relevant Awards, Enterprise Agreements, Public Sector Act 2009, Health Care Act 2008 and the SA Health (Health Care Act) Human Resources Manual.
• Relevant Australian Standards.
• Maintaining confidentiality.
• Ensuring a smoke free workplace.
• Valuing and respecting the needs and contributions of SA Health Aboriginal staff and clients and committing to the development of Aboriginal cultural competence across all SA Health practice and service delivery.
• Creating an inclusive and responsive environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers are welcomed, valued and respected for their cultural knowledge and lived experiences. Our commitment extends to enhancing culturally safe workplaces by investing in our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce, aligning with the SA Health Aboriginal Workforce Framework.
• Elevating the cultural capability of our non-Aboriginal staff, ensuring they can drive meaningful improvements in the health system, policies, planning and practices. This ensures our services are responsive to the cultural needs identified by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• Supervising and overseeing of volunteers assigned within the department, in collaboration with the WCHN Volunteer Unit. Refer to Volunteer Engagement and Management Procedure
• Applying the principles of the South Australian Government’s Risk Management Policy to work as appropriate.

The SA Health workforce contributes to the safety and quality of patient care by adhering to the South Australian Charter of Health Care Rights, understanding the intent of the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards and participating in quality improvement activities as necessary.

Special Conditions:

• It is mandatory that no person, whether or not already working in SA Health, may be appointed to a position in SA Health unless they have provided a satisfactory current Criminal and Relevant History Screening, as required by the SA Health Criminal and Relevant History Screening Policy Directive.
• For appointment in a Prescribed Position under the Child Safety (Prohibited Persons) Act (2016), a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) is required from the Department for Human Services Screening Unit, and must be renewed every 5 years from the date of issue
• For ‘Risk Assessed Roles’ under the NDIS Worker Screening Rules 2018, the individual’s NDIS Worker Check must be renewed every 5 years from the data of issue (or are required to be compliant with transitional arrangement for South Australia).
• Failure to renew required criminal history screenings prior to nominated expiry will require your absence by way of approved leave until a renewal is obtained.
• A satisfactory National Police Certificate (NPC) assessment is required.
• Appointment is subject to immunisation risk category requirements (see page 1). There may be ongoing immunisation requirements that must be met.
• As a state-wide service, WCHN employees may be required to undertake work at various locations in metropolitan Adelaide and provide outreach to other parts of South Australia (the latter in consultation with the incumbent of the role).
• Depending on work requirements the incumbent may be transferred to other locations across SA Health to perform work appropriate to classification, skills and capabilities either on a permanent or temporary basis subject to relevant provisions of the Public Sector Act 2009 for Public Sector employees or the
• SA Health (Health Care Act) Human Resources Manual for Health Care Act employees.
• The incumbent may be required to participate in Counter Disaster activities including attendance, as required, at training programs and exercises to develop the necessary skills required to participate in responses in the event of a disaster and/or major incident.
• The Role Description provides an indication of the type of duties you will be engaged to perform. You may be lawfully directed to perform any duties that a person with your skills and abilities would reasonably be expected to perform.

Role Description

Women's & Children's Health Network

Women’s and Children’s Hospital

The closing date for applications is Friday, 26 June 2026

The reference number to include in your application is H26_5507

Note: Please use the online platform to submit your application. It will not be accepted via email.

If you require assistance in submitting your application online, please get in touch with Executive Search Coordinator, Sarah Prebble via sprebble@hardygroupintl.com / +61 (0)430 219 787

Your application must include:

1. 1.Cover letter addressed to the Principal Consultant;
2. 2.A written response addressing the key selection criteria; and
3. 3.An up to date copy of your Curriculum Vitae.

It Is standard practice for HardyGroup to acknowledge receipt of your application no later than the next business day. We request that if you do not receive the acknowledgement, you contact the search coordinator listed above as soon as possible after the 24-hour business period and arrange to resend your application if necessary.

For a confidential discussion, please contact:

Janine Hammat
​HardyGroup Principal Consultant

M. +61 (0)488 555 858
​E. jhammat@hardygroupintl.com