Vics look overseas to fill top job

Offshore candidates are likely to be prime contenders for the Victorian Government's newly created position of director of biotechnology.

The Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development is planning to entice expatriate Australians or international experts with strong experience in commercialising biotech.

Minister John Brumby said the decision to create the post reflected the fact the government had made biotechnology a key focus.

"We have changed the department to give it a stronger focus in biotechnology and IT, and we have re-targeted to drive the sector forward," Brumby told Australian Biotechnology News.

He said the department would extend the recruitment process offshore in its bid to find the most qualified person for the position.

"We are looking for the best person to fill this role based on merit, and we will find the best person," he said.

The director of biotechnology will work within the existing science, technology and innovation unit to implement industry initiatives and develop commercialisation strategies.

The position, advertised last week by KPMG, is described as spearheading Victoria's biotechnology industry strategy.

The new biotech chief will be expected to develop industry policy, identify infrastructure needs, attract investment to the state and promote commercialisation of statewide research.

Salary package details, understood to be substantial, have not been released.