The organisation
The Professional Standards Authority (PSA) is an independent national regulator operating on behalf of the Professional Standards Councils of Australia, within the NSW Department of Customer Service.
The PSA oversees professional associations and frameworks that promote integrity, competence, and consumer confidence across Australia’s professions.
The opportunity
This is a unique opportunity to lead a national regulator with a strong reform agenda and broad national reach to deliver meaningful public impact. The Executive Director will operate as the Chief Executive of the PSA, driving strategic direction, cultural uplift, and operational excellence across a complex, multi-jurisdictional environment. The role will shape the Authority’s long-term strategy to deliver on its legislative mandate to improve professional standards and strengthen consumer confidence in professional services.
Reporting to the Commissioner of Fair Trading/Deputy Secretary, Fair Trading and Regulatory Services, as well as the Combined Australian Government Professional Standards Councils, you will guide the Authority’s national strategy, strengthen relationships with Ministers and industry leaders, and deliver thought leadership in professional standards, governance, and risk management. This is a high-impact role offering the chance to influence national policy, regulatory reform, and consumer protection at scale.
Key priorities include:
- Strategic Leadership: Set direction and deliver on legislative and regulatory mandates
- Governance & Boards: Report to and advise boards and Ministers across jurisdictions
- Cultural Uplift: Lead transformation and build a high-performing, values-driven team
- Legal & Regulatory Expertise: Apply deep knowledge of professional standards legislation
- Stakeholder Engagement: Influence policy and build partnerships across government and industry
This role requires a leader who can engage and inspire diverse stakeholders, champion innovation, and ensure the PSA continues to deliver on its vision of professional excellence for the public good. The ideal candidate will be a strategic and visionary leader with deep expertise in governance, law and regulation. You bring executive-level experience in managing complex organisations or regulatory environments, with strong political acumen and the ability to influence at the highest levels of government and industry.
You are known for your collaborative leadership style and ability to inspire and lead values-driven teams. Additionally, you have exceptional communication and negotiation skills with a track record of delivering meaningful reform and cultural transformation. Relevant tertiary qualifications in law, public administration, or a related field are essential.
How to Apply
For a confidential discussion or role related questions, please contact Felicity Stalley or Jess Lewy of The Orchard Talent Group at PSA@orchardtalent.com.au. To apply please submit your current CV and a cover letter by email PSA@orchardtalent.com.au.
Applications close Sunday 16 November 2025.
The Orchard Talent Group acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging, for they hold the memories, traditions, culture and hopes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.