The role, advertised as a head of division (Band 2) at the Australian Space Agency in Canberra was posted on 3 November.
It’s understood that the new role could potentially replace or sit directly below current head of the ASA, Enrico Palermo, similar to former deputy head Dara Williams (2022 to 2024).
The new head of division would likely report directly to deputy secretary of the Science and Technology Group, Helen Wilson, at the Australian government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources.
Space Connect requested more information from the Australian Space Agency about the new role and how it related to Palermo, but the agency declined to comment.
Space Connect also requested clarification from the Department of Industry, Science and Resources.
Of note, any sudden changes to the agency’s leadership structure could have further consequences to the Australian government’s recent counter-offer sent to the European Space Agency in an effort to secure a historic spaceflight to the International Space Station for Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg. Bennell-Pegg has previously completed her basic astronaut training in 2024 and, if the ESA bid is successful, hopes to become the first formal Australian representative to fly to space.
According to the information published on Seek.com, the new head of division role at the Australian Space Agency would be responsible for the division’s governance, performance and strategic direction.
“As a member of the department’s senior leadership team, you will contribute to departmental priorities and lead the delivery of the Australian government’s civil space policy, regulatory and program responsibilities,” it said.
“The role supports policy, program and regulatory outcomes that enable industry growth, ensures the agency delivers against government priorities, and positions the sector to contribute to Australia’s economic, technological and national interests. The head of division provides authoritative, evidence-based advice to the government and senior officials on complex, and at times sensitive matters.
“The head of division builds and sustains strategic relationships with state and territory governments, industry, research institutions and international partners. The role supports high-level negotiations, represents the department and, where required, the Australian government in domestic and international forums, and oversees civil space regulation, international obligations and major whole-of-nation initiatives.
“The head of division is responsible for building organisational capability, fostering a high-performance and inclusive culture, and managing significant resources, risks and competing priorities. Through visible and influential leadership, the role will strengthen domestic and international partnerships, encourage investment and innovation, and support the delivery of Australia’s civil space priorities.”
The position seeks an ideal candidate such as an experienced senior executive with demonstrated experience at senior executive service Band 2 level and Negative Vetting 1 security clearance. Applications close Thursday, 31 December this year.
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