Lead nationally significant capability. Enable globally impactful science.
Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO is one of the world’s largest and most respected multidisciplinary research organisations. For a century, CSIRO has delivered innovation breakthroughs with significant global impact that have transformed industries and improved lives worldwide.
Operating in a rapidly changing world, where science can and must continue to address national challenges, the organisation is entrusted with carrying out research that assists Australian industry, benefits the community and achieves national objectives.
As CSIRO enters its next phase of strategic impact, an outstanding leader is sought for the role of Executive Director Technology, National Facilities & Collections (TFNC). This sector brings together teams delivering impact in advanced technologies (like AI, robotics and quantum), world‑class infrastructure (from radio telescopes to marine vessels), and unique national collections to power discovery from the ocean floor to deep space. They turn complex science into real‑world solutions that drive innovation, inform decisions, and create new industries.
Reporting to the Chief Executive and as a key member of the Executive Team, this role will lead one of CSIRO’s most diverse and strategically critical portfolios spanning technology, national research infrastructure, scientific collections and space and astronomy. This role will ensure these capabilities are strategically aligned, effectively governed and delivering impact for Australia and internationally.
The successful candidate will be an exceptional senior executive and science or technology leader, with a track record of leading large, complex, mission-driven organisations. You will bring deep experience translating technology, infrastructure or research capability into real-world impact, strong strategic and financial capability, and the ability to build influential partnerships across government, industry and academia.
A leadership style grounded in integrity, collaboration and purpose, combined with the ability to operate at the highest levels of government, research and innovation, will be essential to success in this role.
To Apply
Odgers is assisting CSIRO with this appointment. PLEASE NOTE: All applications should be submitted via the Odgers website. https://www.odgers.com/96391
For further information or a confidential discussion, contact the consultants leading the search: Mazin Al Maimani at Mazin.Almaimani@odgers.com or Caroline Dever at caroline.dever@odgers.com
Closing date: 11.55pm on Friday 31 July 2026.
For more than a century, we've been improving the lives of people everywhere with our science.
Since we started life as the Advisory Council of Science and Industry in 1916, we've advanced Australia with a range of inventions and innovations that have had significant positive impact on the lives of people around the world.
These include fast WiFi, polymer banknotes, the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet, and Aerogard, just to name a few.
We work with industry, government and the research community to turn science into solutions to address Australia's greatest challenges, including food security and quality; sustainable energy and resources; health and wellbeing; resilient and valuable environments; future industries; and a secure Australia and region.
