Deputy Commissioner, Southeast Asia

• Are you a senior leader ready to shape Victoria's economic future on the world stage?
• Do you thrive at the intersection of diplomacy, commerce and culture, building the partnerships that open doors for Victorian businesses across Southeast Asia?
• Have you delivered results at an executive level in investment attraction, trade facilitation, or government engagement, and are you ready for your most impactful role yet?

About the role

• Classification: Locally Engaged Staff (LES)
• Salary Range: Commensurate with experience
• Work Location: Victorian Government Trade & Investment (VGTI) office, Kuala Lumpur
• Employment Type: Full-time, 2-year fixed term role

A unique opportunity has arisen for an experienced senior professional with a strong background in investment attraction and trade facilitation, and a sound understanding of the Victorian economy and Government priorities, to join the Victorian Government Trade & Investment (VGTI) network.

The successful candidate will play a crucial role in attracting investments from Malaysia into Victoria and expanding Victoria's economic footprint in the region. In addition to supporting trade and investment objectives, this position will also lead the Government and Strategic Partnership team across Southeast Asia, ensuring alignment with Victoria's international engagement objectives.

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience working in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, with an in-depth understanding of the region’s business landscape, decision-making processes, and cultural dynamics.

Through sophisticated and well-developed government and business networks in market, the successful candidate will support the Commissioner to facilitate new partnerships, expand Victoria’s influence throughout the region and capture economic development outcomes for the state.

About you

You will possess:

• A background in an executive role with a sound understanding of both corporate investment and governmental decision making processes and experience working with corporate stakeholders at a senior level.
• Extensive experience in investment promotion, business development, lead generation initiatives.
• Substantial knowledge of the Victorian economy, key sectors and its competitive advantages, as well as a sound understanding of the Victorian Government’s trade and economic policies and international engagement objectives.
• Exceptional team management skills, particuarly in a cross cultural setting and/or working with remotely located teams.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to identify and leverage market opportunities, align investment strategies, and achieve business objectives.

The successful candidate for this locally engaged position will be responsible for all arrangements in relation to visa, relocation expenses (if applicable), their accommodation and day-to-day living expenses.

About the benefits

We offer a competitive package of benefits. The position includes the opportunity to undertake international travel to Australia and within Southeast Asia. We are committed to fostering a flexible and inclusive work environment, supporting personal and professional development, and encouraging work-life balance. Training and development programs are also encouraged.

About employment eligibility

Applicants must be a citizen, Permanent Resident or qualify for a valid work permit or visa for Malaysia.

The successful applicant will be subject to extensive background checks, including through relevant law enforcement authorities.

The State Government of Victoria's Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds, including veterans and people who have a disability, and people from varied cultural backgrounds.

Contact Information

Further information regarding this opportunity can be obtained from Suhaiza Parman suhaiza.m.parman@global.vic.gov.au.

To be considered for this position applications must be submitted via the Victorian Government Careers portal (click 'Apply Now' below) and must contain:

1. A statement addressing each of the numbered key selection criteria outlined in the position description, AND

2. A current curriculum vitae listing relevant qualifications and/or registrations, details of employment history and relevant skills.

Applications close at midnight on 21 JULY 2026 (AEST). If you experience any difficulty in lodging your application online, please email internationalhr@ecodev.vic.gov.au.