Head of Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria

The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) is a leading organisation at the intersection of science, medicine and justice. We provide independent forensic medical and scientific expertise to support the justice system, deliver crucial evidence that underpins safe convictions and appropriate acquittals, and contribute to public health and community safety through education and research.

Our work is complex and deeply meaningful. From investigating deaths reported to the Coroner, undertaking forensic medical examinations for victims of crime and enabling life‑changing tissue donation through the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria, VIFM plays a critical role in Victoria’s justice and health systems.

What truly sets VIFM apart is our people and our culture. Guided by our values of Respect, Openness, Service, Integrity and Innovation, we foster a workplace where expertise is valued, collaboration is encouraged, and purpose sits at the heart of everything we do.

About the Role

This is a rare opportunity to lead Donor Tissue Bank Victoria (DTBV), a statutory service of VIFM and one of only three multi‑tissue banking facilities in Australia.

DTBV retrieves, processes, stores and distributes cardiac, skin and musculoskeletal tissue for transplantation to patients in Victoria and beyond, operating as a Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) licensed facility, with a NATA‑accredited microbiology function.

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Head, DBTV provides strategic and operational leadership for DTBV - leading a team of 20+ professionals and shaping DTBV’s growth and sustainability in line with VIFM Board objectives. The role will work closely with the Chief Operating Officer to implement actions arising from the operational review outcomes.

This role will:

• Lead a service with end‑to‑end accountability for safe, high‑quality tissue banking operations, quality systems and regulatory compliance (including TGA requirements).
• Working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, drive Board‑approved sustainability initiatives to increase tissue donation and strengthen the supply of tissue products to hospitals and specialist services.
• Lift innovation and research capability to support the development of new human tissue products.
• Build and lead a high‑performing, values‑aligned culture, uplifting capability through clear expectations, coaching and development.
• Strengthen trusted partnerships across government, agencies, sector partners and funding bodies - and represent DTBV/VIFM at relevant forums.
• Provide high‑quality advice and written briefings to the DTBV Committee, Board and government agencies, with clear recommendations on strategy, investment, sustainability and risk.

About You

You’re a credible, values‑driven leader who thrives in complex, highly regulated environments - and you’re motivated by work that directly improves lives.

You will bring:

• Senior leadership experience in a medical, scientific or similarly regulated environment, accountable for operational performance and service delivery.
• Strong strategic, financial and commercial acumen with the ability to translate complex information into clear options and advice for executives and Boards.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, drive improvement and strengthen systems, processes and service sustainability.
• The judgement, integrity and resilience required to balance competing priorities and lead in a high‑trust setting.
• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline.

If you are motivated by purpose and want to lead a service that directly supports patients, families and the broader health system - we welcome your application.

How to apply

Please submit your current résumé and a cover letter of no more than two pages, addressed to Natasha Buckle, outlining your suitability for the role with reference to the key selection criteria addressed above. Your application should highlight your leadership experience, strategic and operational capability, stakeholder engagement skills, and ability to provide high-quality advice in a regulated environment.