This Opportunity

The Deputy Director Operations is responsible for managing the efficiency and effectiveness of the SWLT operations and administrative functions, including management of systems and processes that comply with DFAT and Palladium policies and local PNG laws. 

By aligning internal practices with external policy priorities, the Deputy Director Operations helps to lead a responsive, adaptive, and values-driven workplace and models a positive and effective approach to mentoring, learning, probity and compliance. 

Primary Responsibilities 

The Deputy Director Operations will be responsible for setting and managing a robust operational baseline from which SWLT delivers technical inputs. This includes the following key functions:

• Implement, review and update operational policies and procedures related to HR, finance, risk and fraud management, procurement, logistics, travel and safety and security. Ensuring all policies and procedures are in line with Palladium guidelines, and in compliance with Papua New Guinean and Australian Government policies
• Drive continuous improvement through feedback, reflection and innovation to adapt operational systems in line with SWLT requirements, and introduce new ways of working including through technology, data, and AI to improve operational efficiency
• Lead and manage relationships with key stakeholders including DFAT, Government of PNG counterparts, service providers, implementing partners and internal colleagues, ensuring clear communication, alignment with program objectives, and effective resolution of operational issues
• Provide senior‑level operational support to financial oversight, including contributing to budgeting, forecasting, expenditure tracking and financial risk management, and ensuring operational decisions support sound financial management and Head Contract requirements
• Supervise, support and mentor operations staff, providing clear direction, coaching and performance feedback, and fostering an inclusive, respectful and high‑performing office culture that values learning, accountability and continuous improvement
• Lead operational planning and coordination for field activities, including cohesion between travel, security, logistics and resource allocation, ensuring activities are well‑planned, appropriately resourced and responsive to program priorities and contextual risks
• Ensure risk management frameworks are in place and actively monitored, identifying emerging operational, financial, safety and reputational risks and working with senior leadership to implement timely mitigation measures
• Ensure strict adherence to security protocols and duty of care policies for all staff and consultants, including oversight of security planning, incident management, compliance with DFAT and Palladium requirements, and promotion of a strong safety culture across the program
• Understand and contribute to SWLT gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) objectives as relevant to this role and participate in GEDSI learning and engagement as required
• Adhere to DFAT and Palladium safeguarding standards and policies and commit to prevent harm, and commit to promoting safe, inclusive environments, including reporting concerns appropriately.
• Model, contribute to and support an office culture of learning and performance with colleagues, junior staff and counterparts
• Support and uphold the organisation’s commitment to environmental sustainability, such as reducing resource use and promoting climate-friendly practices.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of solutions that deliver value and ensure SWLT principles are embedded within program delivery.

About You

You will have proven experience in the following areas: 

• Managing large-scale donor-funded development programs, including financial oversight and accurate budget management, experience overseeing large and complex procurements and contracts, and quality assurance of operational processes.
• The ability to mentor, coach, and lead diverse teams, fostering a positive culture of learning, open communication and collaboration, including conducting performance management of staff, working with team members in setting key performance indicators, monitoring results and applying remedies as required.
• Sound problem-solving and decision-making skills, applied in dynamic and complex settings, and a demonstrated ability to be adaptive in managing competing and changing priorities and delivering results.
• Closely monitoring risks and issues, including identifying, managing and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies, including fraud prevention and compliance monitoring adhering to Australian and Papua New Guinean policies and legislations.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to operate diplomatically and cross-culturally with government, private sector, and community stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously while contributing effectively within a team.
• Participation and positive engagement in diverse teams, supporting a results-driven culture of learning and inclusion.
• Demonstrated commitment to the principles of locally-led, socially inclusive, politically informed and adaptive programming.

To Apply

Please submit your application online at https://thepalladiumgroup.com/careers , including your CV and detailed cover letter, outlining your suitability and experience in line with the requirements of the position.

Closing date: Close of business Wednesday 1 April 2026. Candidates may be interviewed on a rolling basis. 

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion - Palladium is committed to embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion into everything we do. We welcome applications from all sections of society and actively encourage diversity to drive innovation, creativity, success and good practice. We positively welcome and seek to ensure we achieve diversity in our workforce; and that all job applicants and employees receive equal and fair treatment regardless of their background or personal characteristics. These include: (but are not limited to) socio-economic background, age, race, gender identity and expression, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, nationality, veteran, marital or Indigenous status.

Should you require any adjustments or accommodations to be made due to a disability or you are a neurodivergent individual or for any other circumstance, please email our team at accessibility@thepalladiumgroup.com and we will be in touch to discuss.

Safeguarding - We define Safeguarding as “the preventative action taken by Palladium to protect our people, clients and the communities we work with from harm”. We are committed to ensuring that all children and adults who come into contact with Palladium are treated with respect and are free from abuse. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced selection process including safeguarding-focused interviews and a rigorous due diligence process.