About Us
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, to supporting 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 great opportunity to join VIFM’s Senior Executive Team as Chief Finance Officer (CFO), reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. In this role you will:
- Provide strategic leadership across financial management, governance, procurement, facilities, assets and commercial functions.
- Shape VIFM’s financial strategy and ensure responsible stewardship of public resources to deliver statutory responsibilities and long‑term objectives.
- Lead engagement with the Department of Justice and Community Safety on funding; advocate for sustainable funding models.
- Drive financial and operational efficiencies and explore opportunities for growth, collaboration and diversified revenue.
- Lead capital planning, infrastructure investment, and digital/enterprise systems to ensure fit‑for‑purpose facilities and robust financial frameworks.
- Lead and develop a capable, values‑aligned finance and corporate services function that supports excellence across the organisation.
This is a five-year fixed-term position at SES-1 level.
About You
You are a strategic, credible and values‑driven executive leader with deep expertise in financial governance and a passion for public value. You will provide:
- Senior‑level experience in financial management within a complex, regulated or public sector environment.
- Professional judgement and commercial acumen to operate confidently at Board and executive level.
- Ability to provide high‑level strategic advice and translate complex financial and risk information into clear, actionable insights.
- Demonstrated capability leading teams, strengthening systems and ensuring disciplined delivery against agreed budgets and funding parameters.
- Strong relationship‑building skills with government and assurance bodies.
- Integrity and resilience to balance competing priorities, with a commitment to ethical leadership, collaboration and continuous improvement.
If you are motivated by purpose, thrive in environments where your expertise directly contributes to community trust and justice outcomes, and are seeking a role where your leadership genuinely matters — we welcome your application.
How to apply
Please submit your current resume and a cover letter of no more than two pages outlining your skills, experience and suitability for the role, with reference to the key selection criteria in the position description.
Your application should demonstrate your senior leadership capability, financial governance expertise, experience operating in complex or regulated environments, and ability to build strong relationships with government and assurance bodies.