Distinguishing Characteristics

Band 1

Are the deliverers of agency services and outcomes. Band 1 executives lead a defined portfolio of work within an agency, delivering programs, services, or specialist advice aligned to government priorities. They typically manage large teams, which may be multi-disciplinary, and are accountable for outcomes within established budget, policy, and service frameworks. These roles require applying professional or technical expertise, managing operational risks using established frameworks, and making risk-informed decisions in day-to-day delivery. Band 1 executives support organisational culture by fostering safe, inclusive and high-performing teams. This band also includes professional and technical specialists and senior executives that manage large contracts or who have a state-wide ‘outward’ focus, but who may not have any or minimal direct staff management responsibilities.

Band 2

Are deliverers of system outcomes, largely focused on strategic activities which align with government objectives and anticipate future requirements. They are Executive Directors and heads of smaller operational and service delivery agencies tasked with the executive management of a total function or professional discipline at a whole-of-agency level or for a particular geographical area of NSW.  With responsibility for overseeing the implementation of multiple, integrated change initiatives and with delivering outcomes that significantly impact communities, stakeholders and services, these roles require substantial professional/administrative management experience. They also include technical and professional specialists, senior executives that manage significant contracts or those with a state-wide, externally focussed impact. They influence and advocate significant positions and strategies taking into account the government sector core values, achieving sustainable solutions to complex issues. They shape organisational culture, drive leadership development and workforce initiatives. They are the recognised authorities in their field responsible for advice upon which the agency and Minister can depend.

Band 3

Deputy Secretaries of Departments or chief executives of major operational and service delivery agencies, are the outcome drivers. With high level cross-agency, cross-sector and national. These roles require extensive professional/executive management experience. This Band also includes senior executives tasked with leading the delivery of major services for a particular geographical area of NSW. Their focus is on strategic, longer-term outcomes or particularly sensitive, contentious matters with whole-of-government impacts. These roles negotiate and resolve conflict with stakeholder leadership and manage the parliamentary, political and NSW government sector environments. These roles involve leading systemic risk management in politically sensitive and contested contexts, exercising judgement under uncertainty, and making decisions that shape government direction. They plan and oversee public administration for their area of responsibility consistent with the government sector core values, forge linkages across government and non-government systems and are accountable for impacts beyond agency outcomes. Band 3 executives are integral stewards providing safe working environments that are inclusive, innovative and high performing.