Program Background

The Economic and Social Infrastructure Program is a development assistance program supported by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and implemented by DT Global.

With a budget of more than AUD370 million and an 8 year (2018-2026) implementation phase, ESIP is driving change in the energy, social infrastructure and telecommunications sectors, as well as supporting PNG State Owned Enterprise (SOE) performance improvement.

Over its first five years, ESIP has made good progress in building and upgrading economic and social infrastructure across Papua New Guinea. It has created entry points for policy dialogue and reforms in government and SOEs and maintains strong relationships with these agencies. It has robust reporting processes, a deliberate focus on risk, and strong systems and personnel to embed cross-cutting themes including climate change, local leadership and Gender Equality Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI).

To achieve sustainable change, ESIP’s work is guided by the following end of program outcomes:

1)    There is stronger infrastructure planning, management, implementation and maintenance in focus sectors.

2)    Targeted SOE and government institutions (and other stakeholders) have stronger management capacity, institutional and partner arrangements to deliver quality and sustainable capital infrastructure projects.

3)    There is a stronger policy and legislative reform agenda for infrastructure investment.

For further information about ESIP and working in PNG, please click on this link: ESIP – Managing Director recruitment video

About the role

We are looking for a recognised leader to steer the PNG Economic and Social Infrastructure Program (ESIP) into the future. You don’t need to be an engineer or infrastructure specialist, but you do need to be an exceptional leader with vision, integrity, diplomatic nous and the ability to shape policy and investment decisions. 

You will have strong interpersonal intelligence with a commitment to developing an inclusive culture and achieving results. You are a personable and inspiring leader who is practical, outcome-oriented and client focussed.

This is an exciting role that will build on a solid foundation and will lead a high performing team with a reputation for excellence.

This role will be based long term in PNG. 

Roles & responsibilities

• Shape the strategic direction of future infrastructure investments in PNG by designing innovative responses to trends, political landscapes and infrastructure sector challenges. 
• Translate ESIP’s program and sector strategies into results, with an orientation towards action and seizing opportunities for reform.
• Lead ESIPs strategic risk management including sector-specific risk discussions with the management team implementing personnel and DFAT counterparts.
• Build strong relationships with the DFAT’s Infrastructure team by anticipating client expectations and negotiating and facilitating a collaborative partnership.
• Lead high-level engagement across the Australian High Commission to prioritise infrastructure investments, acting as a strategic partner that draws on and understands Australia’s strategic interests.
• Model and lead best practice with GESDI, Climate Change and Disaster Resilience (CCDR), and Locally Led Development (LLD) and embed theses principles and policies throughout the program, including sector strategies and staff engagement.
• Clearly communicate ESIP’s performance and achievement, creating excitement and engaging stakeholders in the possibilities of further change.
• Create a positive culture and environment for the ESIP team to do its best work and foster open and inclusive dialogue with team members.
• Support PNG led solutions to infrastructure challenges, ensuring program activities are locally led and can navigate PNG’s political economy. 

Selection criteria

The ideal candidate:

• Goal directed, with a track record of achievement and high performance.
• Thinks and plans rigorously and strategically to ensure that ESIP thrives in the near and long-term.
• Can navigate political sensitives and is proficient in diplomatic communications.
• Clearly communicates and models commitment ESIP’s purpose and vision.
• Can build and maintain influential and mutually beneficial client relationships.
• Is rigorous in the analysis of data and insights for planning & managing risk.
• Can handle complexity with ease, being able to identify patterns and themes.
• Can support and equip the high performing team to continue to succeed and excel.
• Shows a genuine level of care and compassion for team members, clients, stakeholders and the communities in which we work.

Remuneration

This position will be remunerated in line with the Australian Government’s Adviser Remuneration Framework and is classified as Discipline Group D, Job Level 4. The actual salary offered will be commensurate with the relevant experience of the successful candidate.

We also offer:

• A bright, spacious and secure office in Port Moresby’s harbourside precinct
• A portfolio of programs and network of leaders in PNG that support each other to achieve success.
• A commitment to professional development and learning.
• A welcoming and culturally diverse team

More information is available at www.dfat.gov.au/about-us/publications/adviser-remuneration-framework.

HOW TO APPLY

We welcome your interest in joining and leading the dynamic ESIP team. Apply by submitting your updated CV and tell us why you think you are the ideal candidate (no longer than 1 - 2 pages).  

About DT Global

DT Global is shaping a future where sustainable development and innovation empower individuals, communities, and nations. We work in partnership with local stakeholders to foster inclusive prosperity, social equity, and environmental stewardship. Our global team of 2,500 staff and experts work in over 90 countries to solve complex problems in the peacebuilding, governance, economic development, environment, and human development sectors. With a track record of technical excellence and more than 60 years of international development experience and relationships, we deliver innovative solutions that transform lives.

For more information, please see www.dt-global.com

Should this role be of interest, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.  Kindly note only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

DT Global is committed to child protection and safeguarding the welfare of children in the delivery of our international development programs.  We are committed to Safety and the Prevention of Sexual Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH), and bribery prevention. DT Global is an equal opportunity employer and we encourage women, men, people with diverse backgrounds and people living with disabilities to apply. This program is funded by the Australian Government and Managed by DT Global.