Executive Search

Appointing a Director General into a State Government department

Date Posted:30 January 2025
Consultant:Jenny Ethell

Conducting an Executive Search for a Director General to lead and provide efficient management and strategic leadership of the Department, achieving the strategic objectives of the Department and providing expert and independent advice to the Minister and relevant authorities

State Government Dispute Resolution Organisation

The Brief

Future Leadership™ was engaged by a State Government Education Department to appoint their next Director General. This critical position is responsible for effective education delivery, with a priority on student achievement across all schools.

The appointee will provide efficient management and strategic leadership of the Department, achieving the strategic objectives of the Department and providing expert and independent advice to the Minister and relevant authorities.

9.19.1

Candidate net Promote Score

Future Leadership combines truly personalised relationships with innovative technology solutions to ensure an approachable and efficient process for all our Net Promoter Score across clients, successful candidates and unsuccessful candidates is well above industry standard.

10,000+10,000+

Candidates supported every year

We maintain genuine relationships with past candidates and continue to support them with leadership solutions long term, after they land their role.

50.5%50.5%

Senior Women Appointed since 2002

Over half of the executive search assignments undertaken by our team have resulted in the appointment of outstanding female or LGBTQI+ leaders to high profile roles.

98%98%

Candidate Retention Rate for 12 months since 2002

Our thorough briefing process and ability to engage passive candidates mean that we go to great lengths to find the right person for the role – long term!

The Process

The Future Leadership team, represented by Jenny Ethell and Larissa Langley undertook a comprehensive search process tailored to the Departments needs.

Key steps included:

  • Briefing and Strategy Development: The Future Leadership Team undertook a comprehensive briefing with the states Public Sector Commissioner to gain insight and a deep understanding of the position
  • Targeted Candidate Search: Leveraged Future Leaderships™ extensive networks and database, an executive search and outreach campaign was undertaken to identify candidates with the ability to work across all levels of government and stakeholders with confidence, have well established conceptual, analytical thinking and policy making skills with a strategic and future mindset. The successful candidate will have the ability to think critically and mitigate risk
  • Candidate Assessment: The selection panel considered an initial shortlist of four candidates, with three candidates progressing to panel interviews and undertaking full psychometric assessment
  • Final Evaluation: 360-degree reference checking completed on the preferred candidate with Future Leadership providing a full selection report to the panel

The Outcome

The successful candidate has over a decade of experience within the Department of Education and more than 20 years’ experience in senior government positions, bringing a deep understanding of the position and a proven track record in delivering results. Throughout their career the successful candidate oversaw major portfolios such as Infrastructure, Finance, and ICT. Their knowledge of operations and dedication to improving student outcomes makes them an outstanding choice for this leadership role.

Consultant

Jenny Ethell

Advisor View Profile
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