Head, Evidence and Impact
Sax Institute
Direct report to the Chief Executive at a leading independent health research organisation
Lead an engaged, high calibre team to solve some of Australia’s most complex health and wellbeing challenges using evidence and research
Exciting role bringing together business development and relationship management whilst delivering high quality consulting projects, which improve public health outcomes
The Organisation
The Sax Institute is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that improves health and wellbeing by driving better use of evidence in policies, programs and services. The Institute has an international reputation as an Evidence Specialist, with nearly 20 years' experience in translating research findings into policy drawing on our own expertise as well as that of our more than 80 member organisations. It works with governments, health organisations, research organisations and a network of experts nationwide to analyse policy problems and find the best evidence-based solutions.
Its work spans a broad portfolio of programs and services, including; The 45 and Up Study, SURE (Secure Unified Research Environment), Evidence Check, Dynamic Simulation, Aboriginal Health Division, The Australian Prevention Partnership Centre and the Evaluation and Impact Services Division, which this role leads.
Evidence and Impact Division
Sax Institute’s Evaluation and Impact Services team delivers high-quality, independent evaluations that help organisations understand the effectiveness, value and outcomes of their programs and policies. With deep expertise in health and social policy, the team works across government, non-profit and community sectors to provide actionable insights that drive improvement and innovation.
The Role
The Head, Evidence and Impact Division is a senior executive role reporting to the Chief Executive and responsible for the strategic development and operational management of the Division. This is an exciting role that continues to expand the Institute’s impact through business development, strategic relationship management, and the delivery of high-quality programs.
This role will be responsible for building and maintaining a strong pipeline of opportunities in a competitive marketplace; balancing multiple complex consulting projects simultaneously; and managing client expectations. The role will position the Division and the Institute for growth whilst maintaining a reputation for independence and analytical excellence, and foster whole of Institute collaboration to leverage all Institute capabilities in service delivery.
The Individual
Essential
Postgraduate qualifications, preferably in public health, health policy, health services, research or related.
10+ years’ experience in health policy, strategy and planning, evidence mobilisation, modelling, program review and evaluation, and impact assessment.
Demonstrated ability to problem solve at a high level and develop, implement and evaluate innovative solutions to complex policy challenges.
Substantial leadership experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams, operational and budget management, bringing excellence in methodology and analytical rigour.
A proactive approach to developing and nurturing a strong network of professional contacts across government and the health sectors.
Desirable
Publication in peer reviewed journals.
Understanding of health system design and reform.
For a confidential discussion, please call Bronwen Kerr, Jocelyn Hinder or Daniel Nicholls on 02 9233 1200.
To obtain a copy of the Candidate Brief for this role, please visit: watermarksearch.com.au/position-descriptions
To express interest, please send your application quoting Ref No A006163 to Watermark Search International via this form. We will reply to the email address used for your application.
Closing date: Wednesday 14 January 2026 at 11.59pm AEDT