Sarah Johnston

Background

About Sarah Johnston

As a highly skilled professional, I possess an advanced foundation across a range of corporate services areas. I can effectively manage and complete multiple tasks while ensuring daily tasks are dealt with in line with goals, expectations, and strategic outcomes. My excellent written and verbal communication skills, coupled with my ability to convey information professionally and concisely, make me comfortable interacting with and influencing staff in diverse settings. Additionally, I exhibit a high degree of financial literacy as a CPA, exceptional problem-solving skills, and the proven ability to work at pace and transition between strategic and tactical initiatives.I am experienced in governance, legislation, strategic planning, corporate reporting and communications. My technical skills include people and culture strategy, strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, communication, teamwork, governance, problem-solving, legislation and compliance, change management, employee engagement, performance management, workplace health and safety, financial analytics, diversity and inclusion, capability, industrial relations regulations, talent management, and strategic business planning.I have held several leadership positions, including Director, Office of the Deputy Secretary Forest Fire and Regions Group at the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Change, where I provided leadership, strategic direction, and management for the Office of the Deputy Secretary. My responsibilities included delivering subject matter expert advice and support on a range of strategic policy and operational matters, undertaking Deputy Secretary commissioned projects, managing and supporting a high-performing team, identifying emerging issues and opportunities, and leading and providing mentoring and other professional support for developing managers, senior managers, and staff within the Office of the Deputy Secretary.Throughout my career, I have achieved a positive, open, delivery-focused culture that values and supports people based on collaboration, accountability, and trust. I am committed to providing advice and support to senior leaders and employees with a variety of complex issues while providing the highest standards of service.