Does the idea of supporting Australian politicians to connect across jurisdictions and party lines, develop their values-based leadership, and consider their agency and role in transforming the political system excite you?

Next25 is an independent and innovative think-and-do tank on a mission to ensure Australia has what it takes to make the future its people want. With rigorous research, trusted engagement, and ground-breaking initiatives, we uncover and address levers to shift deep contributing factors of Australia’s biggest issues.

We are seeking a well-connected engagement lead with insight into the challenges of the political system and a desire to support politicians as a lever for restoring trust in government. We can offer you:

• An exciting opportunity for the right candidate to work on innovative programs that have a positive impact on the nation
• Employee benefits of NFP salary packaging
• Work-life balance and hybrid working

Why your role matters

This is a rare opportunity to utilise your exceptional relationship-building skills and established network in a non-partisan approach to ensuring more Australian politicians lead with their values and transform their system by having access to training and support.

Next25 is seeking a Senior Engagement Lead to boost politicians’ participation in and awareness of our transformative programs for Australian Federal, State and Territory parliamentarians: Leadership and Improving Democracy: Transforming Parliament for Women.

Next25 is in its tenth year of offering Leadership, its third offering Transforming Parliament for Women, and delivers both programs in partnership with Corporate Evolution, a world leader in values-based culture and leadership consulting.

Our programs receive exceptional feedback

• 100% of all participants across both programs would recommend the program to colleagues
• 100% of all participants across both programs report the program improved their ability to lead
• 100% of all program participants since 2020 report the program improved their understanding of their role and agency in changing or influencing the political system
• 100% of Transforming Parliament for Women participants reported an improved confidence in the ability of themselves and others to play a role in the transformation of parliament 
• 100% of Transforming Parliament for Women participants would like to be part of the initiative’s next steps

Program Testimonials

“This program has been a wonderful way to connect with women across the political spectrum and pause to take a breath and reflect on why we are in NSW Parliament. As a new MP it has been great to develop these connections and to see the similarities many of us share. The program helps us to find space to work on the longer-term vision of making the parliament a better place, not just for women, but for everyone.” Kobi Shetty, NSW Greens (Improving Democracy: Transforming Parliament for Women, 2023)

“I would encourage all Parliamentarians to undertake this course to develop and grow as a leader.” Joan Pease MP, Queensland Labor (Leadership, 2023)

"Rarely do politicians have access to a professional development opportunity which will improve their capacity to be a better representative of their constituents and in turn a stronger political system. I thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated the efforts of Next25."
The Hon Mike Gaffney MLC, Independent, TAS (Leadership, 2022)

“This course was perfect for where I am in my Parliamentary career. I highly recommend it.” The Hon James Griffin MP, Liberal Party NSW (Leadership, 2020)

What your days will look like

Reporting to the CEO, your key responsibilities will be to:

• Design and lead Next25’s participant pipeline and participant engagement strategy.
• Horizon scan for Australia-wide opportunities to engage new and existing stakeholders that support the success of Leadership and Transforming Parliament for Women.
• Develop and implement strategies for cultivating critical relationships that support the success of the two key initiatives.
• Work with the CEO, Board and Philanthropy Manager to nurture existing relationships.
• Develop and lead engagement events and activities beyond government (e.g. thought leadership or public engagement opportunities) that support these two initiatives.
• Assist with promoting the initiatives and creating communication collateral to target Federal, State and Territory parliamentarians and influencers in their ecosystem.
• Write and speak persuasively to diverse stakeholders.
• Contribute to grant applications and other fundraising activities to support these initiatives.
• Evolve, monitor, and report on program participation and engagement targets.

Interested? We’d love to hear from you.

Read the full position description for more details or click Apply Now to submit your application.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews on a rolling basis.

A position description is attached.