About Us

Climate Action Network Australia (CANA) supports the Australian climate movement to achieve real action to protect people at home and abroad from climate change, to safeguard our natural environment, and to build a fair, clean, healthy Australia for everyone. We operate behind the scenes to drive strategic thinking and campaign collaboration between members. We are a small team located in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Position Details

• Full-time permanent role
• Based in any major Australian city
• Regular interstate travel required
• Reports to CEO
• Direct report: Finance Officer
• Working relationships with all staff across CANA programs and the Board

Role

The Director of Operations plays a crucial leadership role in ensuring CANA's operational excellence and organisational sustainability. This senior position is responsible for leading core operational functions including finance, human resources, risk management, and governance. The role works closely with the CEO and Board to strengthen CANA's operational capabilities as we continue to grow and evolve

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management and Planning

• Lead financial planning and management
• Complete overall organisational budgeting and oversee program and event budget development and management
• Ensure robust financial controls and compliance
• Supervise the Finance Officer and financial operations
• Support donor and grant management

People and Culture

• Lead HR strategy and workforce planning
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and performance management processes
• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures
• Foster a positive organisational culture
• Provide support to staff across the organisation

Risk Management and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulatory requirements
• Manage operational risk framework and mitigation strategies

Operational Leadership

• Lead continuous improvement of operational systems and processes
• Oversee IT infrastructure and database management
• Manage CANA’s service agreement program
• Contribute to strategic planning and organisational development
• Support the Board and CEO in governance matters

Selection Criteria

Essential

• At least 5 years of experience in senior operational roles, preferably within the not-for-profit sector
• Demonstrated experience successfully managing the finances of a similarly sized organisation
• Strong track record in HR management and developing high-performing teams
• Experience in risk management and regulatory compliance
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Proven ability to lead organisational change and improvement
• Deep understanding of not-for-profit governance, charity compliance and operations
• Commitment to climate action and environmental justice

Desirable

• Experience managing organisations through significant growth or change
• Track record of improving organisational culture and governance
• Relevant qualifications in business administration, management or similar
• Experience supporting and working with Boards
• Knowledge of climate movement organisations and dynamics

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package (to be negotiated based on experience)
• Flexible working arrangements
• Professional development opportunities
• Chance to contribute to meaningful climate action
• Collaborative and mission-driven work environment

next steps

Click Apply Now to submit your application.