Chief Executive Officer

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary Range: $140,000 - $180,000 per annum (commensurate with experience and qualifications)
Incentives: Performance-based bonuses tied to key organisational outcomes

About Abilities Unlimited Australia (AUA)

At Abilities Unlimited Australia (AUA), we empower children of all abilities to thrive through innovative, evidence-based educational sport and recreation programs. As a leading not-for-profit organisation, our mission is to foster physical, emotional, and social development, creating pathways for inclusion and success for every child and their family.

Guided by our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan , AUA operates across five key pillars:

• Program Excellence: Delivering innovative, high-quality educational programs.
• Family-Centric Support: Providing families with resources, education, and support.
• Workplace Culture: Cultivating a high-performing, inclusive environment.
• Community Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations to broaden reach and amplify impact.
• Financial Resilience: Driving sustainable growth through diversified funding and strategic investments.

Our core values - Include, Care, Connect, Empower - are at the heart of everything we do, driving positive outcomes for children, families, and communities nationwide.

Position Overview

As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), you will be a visionary leader, advancing AUA's mission and delivering on our strategic objectives. Reporting to the Board of Directors, you will be responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial leadership of the organisation, ensuring AUA's continued growth, innovation, and reputation as a national leader in inclusive education and recreation programs. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of a purpose-driven organisation while delivering transformative outcomes for children, families, and communities across Australia.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the implementation of AUA's 2024-2027 Strategic Plan, ensuring alignment with AUA mission and values.
• Drive innovation and strategic growth to strengthen AUA's impact and reach.
• Monitor and respond to emerging trends in education, inclusion, and recreation to position AUA as a thought leader in the sector.

Governance and Board Relations

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to define, monitor, and achieve strategic objectives.
• Provide comprehensive reporting on performance, risks, and opportunities for informed governance.
• Uphold the highest standards of governance, ensuring legal, financial, and regulatory compliance.

Financial Management and Sustainability

• Oversee the development and management of the annual budget to ensure financial health and sustainability.
• Secure diverse revenue streams, including grants, sponsorships, fundraising, and philanthropic contributions.
• Implement and maintain robust financial controls, risk management frameworks, and reporting systems.

Program Excellence and Innovation

• Oversee the design, delivery, and evaluation of inclusive, evidence-based educational programs aligned with AUA's mission.
• Develop scalable and sustainable initiatives that address the needs of children with diverse abilities.
• Strengthen partnerships with schools, allied health professionals, government agencies, and community organisations to enhance program quality and reach.

Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

• Cultivate partnerships across government, corporate, and community sectors to drive AUA's mission.
• Advocate for inclusion and access to education and sport at local, state, and national levels.
• Represent AUA as the primary spokesperson, enhancing its public profile and sector influence.

Workforce Leadership and Development

• Build and lead a high-performing, inclusive team, fostering a culture that reflects AUA's values.
• Oversee talent acquisition, development, and retention strategies to attract and nurture top talent.
• Promote professional growth and learning through robust training and development frameworks.

Operational Management

• Drive efficiency by implementing systems and processes that enhance program delivery and stakeholder engagement.
• Establish data-driven evaluation frameworks to monitor organisational performance and inform strategic decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with all policies, procedures, and external regulatory requirements.

Public Relations and Marketing

• Develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy to elevate AUA's profile.
• Showcase AUA's achievements through compelling narratives that engage stakeholders and supporters.
• Lead digital and traditional marketing campaigns to amplify impact and advocacy efforts.

Qualifications and Experience

We are seeking an inspiring, accomplished leader with:

• Proven senior leadership experience in the not-for-profit, education, or sport and recreation sectors.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, financial management, and operational leadership.
• Strong knowledge of inclusion, educational frameworks, and evidence-based program delivery.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills, with a track record of stakeholder engagement and advocacy.
• A history of securing and managing diverse funding sources, including grants, sponsorships, and donations.
• Experience leading inclusive, high-performing teams and fostering positive workplace cultures.

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate will be:

• A visionary forward-thinking leader with the ability to inspire and innovate.
• Skilled at fostering strategic partnerships and creating a culture of trust and engagement.
• Effective in leading dynamic environments with a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Passionate about inclusion and committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families.

Why Join AUA?

• Purpose-Driven Impact : Lead life-changing programs that empower children and families.
• Collaborative Environment : Partner with a dedicated team and supportive Board of Directors.
• Innovation and Growth : Drive strategic initiatives with the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.
• Rewarding Package: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and professional development.
• National Reach: Shape inclusive educational programs that create systemic change.

Application Process

To apply, please submit a cover letter addressing the selection criteria, highlighting your suitability for the role and alignment with AUA's mission and values, along with your current resume outlining your professional experience, achievements, and qualifications relevant to the position. Indicate your ability to meet the mandatory pre-employment requirements, including Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) Check,.