About the Role

The Gordon is stepping into a bold new era of data, AI and digital transformation — and we're searching for a passionate leader ready to set the vision. As our AI and Data Governance Lead, you'll build and embed the frameworks, standards and culture needed to ensure data and AI are secure, ethical, high?quality and future?ready. You'll partner with teams across the Institute to champion responsible innovation and unlock modern solutions to elevate education, operations and student experience. This is your opportunity to take ownership of governance for one of Victoria's most respected TAFE's and guide us confidently into the next generation of data and AI maturity.

Some key responsibilities for this role include, but are not limited to:

• Lead and uplift the data and insights team through clear prioritisation, coaching and strong expectations, enabling high-quality delivery and capability growth.
• Build and embed robust data and AI governance frameworks including policies, standards, stewardship roles and model custodianship across the organisation.
• Strengthen compliance and risk management by overseeing privacy, security, ethical AI practices and sector?specific legislative obligations.
• Drive responsible innovation by identifying, piloting and scaling modern data and AI use cases that align with organisational goals and enhance student and operational outcomes.
• Champion data quality and architecture excellence through oversight of metadata, lineage, trusted datasets and enterprise data infrastructure design.
• Influence strategic decision-making via governance committees, transparent reporting and strong leadership that strengthens trust and accountability across The Gordon.

About You:

Are you a confident, people?centred leader who loves shaping clarity, coaching others and building modern, ethical and high-performing data practices? Do you have a mix of technical depth, governance maturity and genuine passion for responsible AI, supported by the ability to influence, collaborate and guide teams through change? If so, we would love to hear from you! Your strong judgement, curiosity and communication style help you connect with stakeholders at every level and you're energised by creating a trusted, well?governed data environment to lift capability across The Gordon.

Additional skills we need from you to be a great fit for this new and exciting role:

• Proven ability to lead, mentor and uplift a data or AI?focused team in a dynamic environment
• Strong knowledge of data governance, AI governance and privacy, including DAMA, ISO and ethical AI principles
• Experience developing and embedding organisational standards, frameworks and policies
• Ability to influence, communicate and engage with stakeholders across complex environments
• Understanding of data architecture, metadata management and AI/ML fundamentals

If this sounds like an opportunity for you, please apply! Please note, candidate reviews and interviews may be conducted prior to the closing date, so get your application in now so you don't miss this great role. Please note that applications submitted via recruitment agencies will not be accepted for this position.

What's next?

Applications close 4 March 2026 @ 11:30pm

Salary Range: Management Contract: $125,000.00 - $130,000.00 + Superannuation

We are committed to a diverse, inclusive, and safe workplace where everyone can thrive. We value equal opportunity, accessibility, and authenticity, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. We encourage candidates with diverse backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and beliefs to apply for this role. If you need reasonable adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please get in touch with our Careers and Talent team via c***@*********** or +61 3 **** ****.

The Gordon

As one of Victoria's largest regional TAFEs, The Gordon is a dynamic and inclusive organisation that values collaboration, diversity, and the power of education. By joining us, you'll become part of a thriving community committed to empowering students and shaping the future of education.

We are the Gordon | We bring our best | We create the future | We are student minded

As a values-driven organisation, The Gordon encourages employee celebration with a dynamic Values Recognition initiative. This program empowers team members to highlight each other's outstanding contributions, offering timely and impactful feedback that resonates throughout the year.

All positions require a current Victorian Employee Working with Children Check and along with background checks. You must hold permanent residency status in Australia or have a valid Work Visa to apply for this position. The Gordon is dedicated to the safety and welfare of all children and young people and prides itself on being a Child Safe organisation and aligns with the Victorian Government's Child Safe Standards.