Title:  Executive Director, Regional Rail and Southern Cross Operations

About Us 

We create thriving places and connected communities. We plan, build and maintain Victoria’s transport, planning and land services. We are committed to a safe, inclusive and high-performing workplace. 

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive workplace where our people can thrive and do meaningful work. 
  

About the role 

This is a Fixed Term Position (up to 5 years)

The Executive Director, Regional Rail and Southern Cross Operations provides strategic leadership and oversight of Victoria’s regional rail, coach services, and Southern Cross Station operations. The role manages the V/Line Service Level Agreement, ensuring contractual compliance, operational performance, infrastructure stewardship, and passenger outcomes, while driving strong partnerships, accountability, continuous improvement, and value for the Victorian community.

The role is responsible for overseeing the V/Line partnership, Southern Cross Station operations, including operating agreements for Overland and XPT and the management of the relationship with ARTC to ensure safe, reliable regional transport services and strong contractual performance. Key responsibilities include driving continuous improvement, leading governance and stakeholder forums, providing strategic advice, managing senior stakeholder relationships, supporting government reforms, and ensuring effective governance, resource management, workforce planning, and delivery of departmental priorities.

What we’re looking for (Selection Criteria) 

You’re someone who: 

• Leads through change and uncertainty, fostering a positive, high-performing culture focused on innovation, continuous improvement, and achieving outcomes.
• Builds strong relationships, influences outcomes, and works effectively across government, industry, and community stakeholders to achieve shared objectives.
• Engages, motivates, and develops teams, championing diversity, inclusion, and a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Applies strong transport, planning, business, and commercial acumen to support informed decision-making, manage risk, and maximise value from investments and partnerships.
• Drives organisational performance, leads reform and improvement initiatives, and positions the organisation to respond effectively to future challenges and opportunities.

Click here to access the Position Description. 

Qualifications and experience 

You’ll bring: 

• Demonstrated success leading at an executive level, delivering outcomes in complex and high-profile environments.
• Extensive experience managing diverse stakeholders, providing strategic advice, negotiating complex contracts, and exercising sound judgement in politically sensitive settings.
• Strong understanding of contract management models, preferably within public transport or a similar sector; relevant tertiary qualifications in Business, Commerce, or a related discipline are highly regarded.

Pre-employment checks and employment conditions  

Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will be required. 

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position. 

Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply. 

How to apply 

Click the ‘Apply’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application. 

Applications close at 11.59pm on Tuesday, 16th June 2026.  

Please include both your resume and a cover letter addressing how your experience addresses each of the key selection criteria for the role. All applications must be submitted via the online portal, we’re unable to accept email or manual submissions. 

For further information about the role, please contact Fiona Coull - Executive Director Heavy Rail at fiona.coull@transport.vic.gov.au.

Important Information 

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