Join a think tank that is making a difference

Grattan Institute is a think tank founded in 2008 to provide independent, rigorous and practical solutions to some of Australia's most pressing policy problems. With substantial independent funding, an eminent Board of Directors and a dynamic CEO, we are shaping the policy debate on many of the important challenges and opportunities facing Australia.

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

School Education Program Director

Based in Melbourne and reporting to the CEO, the School Education Program Director role is an exciting opportunity to lead the School Education Program and work alongside some of Australia’s leading public-policy thinkers influencing the direction of Australian policy.

The School Education Program has already built substantial respect and trust on school education policy. This is your opportunity to take it to the next stage.

What this role will offer you

Grattan Institute will offer you a platform to shape the public debate on Australia’s school education policy. You will define and deliver Grattan Institute’s School Education Policy Program. Your publications, effective in shifting public opinion and influencing senior decision-makers, will be based on rigorous analysis and offer insights “that we didn’t know”. Research will cross disciplinary boundaries and focus on “what we should do”.

You will be joining a great group of people who are intellectually curious, love their work, and are passionate about what they do. We foster a work culture where people are valued and appreciated. We enjoy each other’s company and come together once a week to share a soup lunch. Our competitive spirit finds an outlet in table tennis tournaments, board game and trivia nights.

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 flexibility, salary packaging, a book club, bike storage, fruit, and a well-stocked kitchen.

What we are looking for

You will have a key role as a Grattan spokesperson in media, and directly with senior decision-makers. You have a deep understanding of policy through your experience in academia, public sector, industry or consulting. You instinctively use rigorous quantitative approaches when appropriate. You are well known in your field for making original contributions that cut through ambiguity and complexity. You present confidently, write well for a general audience, and are likely to have published in the media. You are an experienced researcher, and can direct the research of others.

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 and relish rigorous debate.

A passion for improving Australia’s education system is essential, and experience in education policy is desirable, for this role.

A position description is attached.