Executive Director Environment, Energy and Resources

Lead globally significant science. Shape a more sustainable future.

CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, is one of the world’s largest and most respected multidisciplinary research organisations. For a century, CSIRO has delivered breakthroughs that have transformed industries and improved lives worldwide. 

Today, as Australia navigates complex challenges across climate, energy transition, natural resource management and sustainability, CSIRO’s Environment, Energy & Resources (EER) sector plays a pivotal role in delivering science-driven solutions with real-world impact.

As CSIRO enters its next phase of strategic impact and national leadership, an outstanding leader is sought for the role of Executive Director, Environment, Energy & Resources. CSIRO’s Energy, Environment and Mineral Resources teams tackle some of Australia’s biggest challenges - accelerating the shift to low‑carbon energy, protecting oceans, water and biodiversity, and making resource industries more sustainable. Their work spans climate science, ocean and atmospheric research, natural resource management and low‑emissions technologies, translating complex science into practical solutions that help communities adapt to climate change, safeguard ecosystems, and support a resilient, productive economy.

Reporting to the Chief Executive and as a key member of the Executive Team, this role will translate scientific excellence into impact at scale, ensuring the sector’s people, infrastructure, partnerships and programs deliver outcomes that benefit Australia and the world. 

The successful candidate will be an exceptional senior executive and science leader, with a track record of leading large, complex, mission-driven organisations. You will bring deep experience translating research into real-world outcomes, strong strategic and financial capability, and the ability to build influential partnerships across government, industry and academia.

A leadership style grounded in integrity, collaboration and purpose, combined with the ability to operate at the highest levels of government and research, will be essential to success in this role.

To Apply
Odgers is assisting CSIRO with this appointment. PLEASE NOTE: All applications should be submitted via the Odgers website. www.odgers.com/96390

For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact the advising consultants Dr Tom Mutch at [email protected]  and Kylie Taylor at [email protected]

Closing date: 11.55pm on Friday 31 July 2026.