Program Director, Ecotourism Projects

Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation

About the Department

The Queensland Government leads major initiatives that drive long-term economic growth, sustainable development and regional resilience. By focusing on infrastructure, tourism and environmental projects, the government aims to attract investment, create jobs and deliver lasting benefits for communities across the state.

These initiatives are delivered through the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI), which plays a key role in creating opportunities in tourism, science and conservation while protecting Queensland’s unique natural and cultural heritage. Through collaboration with industry, communities and First Nations peoples, DETSI ensures its projects deliver positive outcomes for both the environment and the economy. DETSI leads the government’s ecotourism initiatives, integrating nature-based tourism projects that enhance visitor experiences and support local communities. Guided by the Ecotourism Plan for Queensland’s Protected Areas 2023–2028, these projects focus on sustainable travel, low-impact infrastructure and fostering cultural connections to the land. The upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will further support these efforts by showcasing Queensland’s natural assets and driving new investments with long-term benefits for the state.

About the Role | Program Director, Ecotourism Projects

The Program Director will lead and manage strategic ecotourism projects and programs across Queensland, collaborating with stakeholders to ensure they meet conservation goals while boosting tourism.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate the support and delivery of key ecotourism projects within and adjacent to protected areas
• Partner with public and private stakeholders to identify, plan and implement new tourism opportunities
• Lead infrastructure and tourism projects that align with Queensland’s ecological and economic priorities
• Represent DETSI in negotiations and consultations to secure ecotourism investments and partnerships
• Oversee project progress by monitoring outcomes and driving continuous improvement aligned with sustainability goals.

About You

You thrive in a collaborative environment and have a passion for sustainable tourism. Your communication and stakeholder management skills will be key in driving ecotourism success across the state. In this role, you will combine strategic planning with operational delivery to achieve outstanding outcomes.

Key Attributes and Experience:

• Strong people leadership skills, fostering productive stakeholder relationships across government, industry and First Nations groups
• Proficiency in delivering infrastructure and ecotourism projects, with experience in conservation-focused initiatives
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills to manage complex partnerships and drive stakeholder engagement
• A track record of navigating government processes to achieve strategic outcomes
• Executive-level leadership capabilities as outlined in the Leadership competencies for Queensland
• Qualifications in project management are highly desirable.

Application

Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science & Innovation are committed to inclusive and diverse practices, including recruitment and selection which ensures people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, women, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have equal opportunity to apply and participate.

Candidates who represent diverse backgrounds are encouraged to submit an application. Please see our Equity and Diversity Plan for more information.

How to Apply

For confidential enquiries please contact, Gerard Kerr, General Manager, Executive Search and Selection, Kingston Human Capital on 0432 544 444 or via email gerard@kingstonhumancapital.com.au

To be considered for this pivotal role, please provide the following information for assessment of your suitability:

• Your current resume
• A maximum two-page cover letter addressing your suitability for the position.