Join a think tank that is making a difference

Grattan Institute is a think tank that researches and promotes policies to improve the lives of all Australians. With an eminent Board of Directors and a strong executive team, we are shaping the policy debate on many of the important opportunities facing Australia. We pride ourselves on delivering policy research and recommendations that are independent, rigorous, and practical.

Grattan's unique culture provides an opportunity to add significant value. You will be working with a small, intellectually curious, driven, and supportive team motivated to make a difference.

Program Director

Grattan is seeking a program director to lead a program of economic analysis and policy development and join Grattan’s leadership team.

The Program Director manages a small team of researchers and provides the intellectual leadership and public face of the program.

This is an exciting new opportunity to have a meaningful impact in Australian public policy, alongside some of Australia’s leading public policy thinkers.

The role reports to the CEO. It is based at our headquarters in Melbourne, or our Sydney office with regular travel to Melbourne. Hybrid work is supported, and reasonable other accommodations will be made as needed.

Alternatively, we may consider appointing a Fellow or Senior Fellow to undertake a defined program of work.

What this role will offer you

Grattan Institute will offer you a platform to shape the public debate on economic policy in Australia. You will define and deliver a program of economic policy research and advocacy aligned with Grattan Institute’s core values: independent, rigorous and practical.

You will be joining a great group of people who are intellectually curious, love their work, and are passionate about what they do.

An attractive and flexible executive remuneration package will be offered to secure the right person for this role. In addition, we offer employee benefits, including flexible work, salary packaging, a book club, bike storage, fruit, and a well-stocked kitchen.

What we are looking for

You are a senior executive in the public sector, industry, consulting or academia with a strong background in economic analysis and a deep understanding of policy.

You must have expertise and experience in some of the following policy domains:

• Housing
• Transport
• Infrastructure
• Digital economy
• Competition
• Technology and innovation

You will have a demonstrated ability to deliver a program of high calibre analysis and practical policy recommendations.

You are well known in your field for making rigorous and original contributions that cut through ambiguity and complexity. You present confidently and write well for a general audience. You are an experienced researcher and can direct the research of others.

You will have a key role as a Grattan spokesperson in media and directly with senior decision-makers.

You are passionate about public policy, enjoy collaboration and public visibility, and are driven to make an important and enduring difference. You embody a contemporary leadership style, and you have well-honed people skills, including managing highly talented individuals. You enjoy working in small teams while also actively contributing to the institution as a whole, helping shape organisational culture and ways of working.

How to apply

If you are a thought leader looking for an influential role in a meaningful organisation, we want to hear from you.

Please apply through the "Apply Now" link below.

If you require more information, please contact Mary Hannebery, Chief People Officer, on 0448 311 659 for a confidential discussion.