EL1, or Executive Level 1, refers to a significant leadership and management classification within certain organizational structures, particularly prominent in the Australian Public Service (APS). An EL1 employee holds a pivotal role, bridging strategic direction with operational execution.
The Core Responsibilities of an EL1
At its heart, an EL1 position demands a blend of leadership, strategic acumen, and effective communication. The key responsibilities associated with this role include:
- Leading and managing a team: EL1s are directly responsible for guiding, developing, and overseeing the performance of their direct reports, ensuring team objectives align with broader organizational goals.
- Shaping strategic thinking: They contribute to and often initiate strategic discussions, helping to define the direction and approach for their area of responsibility. This involves foresight and an understanding of organizational priorities.
- Achieving results: A primary focus for an EL1 is to ensure tangible outcomes are delivered. This requires strong project management skills, resource allocation, and problem-solving capabilities.
- Cultivating productive working relationships: EL1s must build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, fostering collaboration and ensuring smooth information flow.
- Exemplifying personal drive and integrity: This level requires individuals to be self-motivated, resilient, and to consistently demonstrate ethical conduct and sound judgment in all their actions.
- Communicating with influence: EL1s are expected to articulate complex ideas clearly, persuade others, negotiate effectively, and tailor their communication style to various audiences to achieve desired outcomes.
The table below summarizes these core areas of responsibility for an EL1:
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Leadership | Guiding, developing, and overseeing the performance of a team. |
| Strategy | Contributing to and shaping strategic direction and thinking within their domain. |
| Delivery | Ensuring the achievement of specific results and objectives. |
| Relationships | Building and maintaining effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders. |
| Professionalism | Demonstrating strong personal drive, resilience, and unwavering integrity. |
| Communication | Influencing discussions, negotiating, and conveying information clearly and persuasively. |
Context within Organizational Hierarchies
In the Australian Public Service, the Executive Level 1 (EL1) classification sits above the APS (Australian Public Service) levels (e.g., APS 1-6) and typically below Executive Level 2 (EL2) and Senior Executive Service (SES) classifications. This positioning signifies a role that requires:
- Autonomy: Greater independence in decision-making within their delegated authority.
- Complexity: Handling more intricate issues, often requiring nuanced solutions.
- Accountability: Increased responsibility for team performance, project success, and strategic contributions.
For more details on the Australian Public Service classification system, you can refer to information provided by the Australian Public Service Commission.
Key Skills and Attributes for an EL1
To excel as an EL1, individuals are expected to demonstrate a range of advanced competencies:
- Strategic Thinking: The ability to understand the broader organizational context and contribute to long-term planning.
- People Management: Skills in mentoring, coaching, performance management, and conflict resolution within a team setting.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Proficiency in negotiation, collaboration, and managing expectations across different groups.
- Problem-Solving: Capacity to identify complex issues, analyze root causes, and develop effective solutions.
- Resilience: The fortitude to navigate challenges, adapt to change, and maintain performance under pressure.
- Ethical Conduct: Upholding the highest standards of integrity and acting as a role model.
Practical Insights
An EL1's day-to-day work often involves:
- Facilitating team meetings to discuss progress, allocate tasks, and address roadblocks.
- Developing and presenting proposals or reports to senior management.
- Mentoring junior staff members and supporting their professional development.
- Engaging with external partners or other government agencies on collaborative projects.
- Implementing new policies or processes within their team.
- Managing budgets and resources for specific programs or initiatives.
