With its spectacular landscapes, rich heritage and deep connection to Country, South Australia offers a truly unique environment in which to live and work. Davidson is proud to partner with the Department for Environment and Water (DEW) to recruit a key leadership role — Director, Public Land and Business Partnerships.
The position plays a vital role in protecting and enhancing South Australia’s natural assets, from managing world-class national parks to fostering sustainable business partnerships and nature-based tourism.
This microsite, created on behalf of DEW, provides key information and guidance for individuals interested in applying for this exciting opportunity to help South Australians conserve, sustain and prosper.
About the Department for Environment and Water
The Department for Environment and Water (DEW) is dedicated to protecting and enhancing South Australia’s natural landscapes, cultural heritage and water resources.
As the agency responsible for managing the state’s iconic national parks, wildlife, and public lands, DEW plays a vital role in supporting sustainable growth while conserving the environment for future generations.
Guided by a vision to help South Australians conserve, sustain and prosper, DEW works collaboratively with communities, industry, and First Nations partners to build a thriving, climate-resilient and nature-rich state.
The Role
This is a rare opportunity to lead the strategic management and activation of South Australia’s public lands — helping to shape the balance between conservation, community access and sustainable economic growth.
As Director, Public Land and Business Partnerships with the Department for Environment and Water (DEW), you will provide visionary leadership in overseeing key public land programs, nature-based tourism, and commercial partnerships that enhance the state’s natural assets and visitor experiences.
The role leads a passionate team driving innovation across iconic sites such as Cleland Wildlife Park, Mt Lofty Summit and the historic Adelaide Gaol, while managing a diverse portfolio of leases, licences and business ventures that deliver long-term environmental, cultural and economic value.
This is an opportunity to play a central role in helping South Australians conserve, sustain and prosper, ensuring the state’s treasured landscapes are managed responsibly — and enjoyed for generations to come.
Key responsibilities
As Director, Public Land and Business Partnerships, you will lead the strategic management and activation of South Australia’s public lands, balancing conservation, community access, and sustainable economic growth.
Key areas of accountability include:
- Providing high-level leadership and direction across DEW’s Public Land and Business Partnerships Branch, driving strategy, innovation and performance.
- Overseeing the management of key public assets such as Cleland Wildlife Park, Mt Lofty Summit, Adelaide Gaol, State Flora, and Mapland.
- Building and maintaining partnerships with business, community, and government to maximise the social, cultural, and economic value of South Australia’s public lands.
- Managing commercial operations, leases, licences, and Crown land programs in line with the state’s sustainability and economic priorities.
- Providing expert advice to the Executive Director, Chief Executive, and Minister to inform strategic decision-making.
- Leading a team of managers to foster a high-performing, collaborative and inclusive culture aligned with DEW’s values and purpose.
- Representing DEW in state, national, and industry forums, ensuring alignment with the government’s environmental, tourism and economic strategies.
Why work with the DEW?
Joining the Department for Environment and Water (DEW) means being part of an organisation that helps South Australians conserve, sustain and prosper. DEW leads work that protects the state’s most valued natural and cultural assets — from national parks and coastal ecosystems to heritage sites and water resources — while supporting innovation and economic opportunity through sustainable management.
- Impact with purpose: Your work directly contributes to protecting South Australia’s landscapes, biodiversity, and community wellbeing.
- Collaboration and innovation: DEW values partnership, inclusion, and creative thinking — working closely with First Nations groups, local communities and industry to deliver lasting outcomes.
- Strong leadership culture: The department fosters professionalism, respect, courage, integrity and sustainability across all levels.
- Meaningful contribution: You’ll help deliver DEW’s vision of a thriving, climate-resilient and nature-rich South Australia.
The Department for Environment and Water is focused on the evolving needs of South Australians and the government’s role in supporting the state's prosperity and wellbeing.
The department has embedded the following public sector values to guide its behaviours and practices:
How to apply
Davidson is proud to be partnering with the Department for Environment and Water (DEW) in the recruitment of the Director, Public Land and Business Partnerships. All applications and enquiries should be directed to Davidson.
You can submit your application by uploading your current resume and a covering letter via the job advertisement below.
Director Public Land & Business Partnership
Please register your interest here.
