OVERVIEW

• Salary: $140,000 p/a plus superannuation, mobile phone, laptop and 5 weeks annual leave. Salary is negotiable and commensurate with experience.
• Reports to: Board of Directors
• Location: We offer a flexible hybrid work arrangement for those based in Sydney and surrounding areas. We also welcome applications from candidates outside of this region, provided you are comfortable and equipped to manage effectively from a remote location.
• Type: Two year contract, full-time

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

ABOUT US

Change the Record (CTR) is Australia’s only national self-determined justice coalition led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peak bodies and their allies. CTR works to end the systemic violence and over-incarceration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by advocating for self-determined and culturally grounded solutions to First Nations justice issues. Our campaigns are rooted in justice, human rights, and systemic change.

VISION

Our justice. Our future. Our way.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are self-determined, thriving, and free from systemic violence and over-incarceration.

PURPOSE

To change the record on the inexcusable rates of incarceration and violence experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, through self-determined social justice advocacy and systems change.

POSITION SUMMARY

As CEO, you will lead Change the Record as it grows into a sustainable, culturally-grounded and Aboriginal-led First Nations justice advocacy organisation. Working closely with the Board, Co-Chairs, and staff, you will drive CTR’s strategic priorities, ensuring alignment with our mission to advocate for transformative justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. You will provide visionary leadership, effective management, and robust governance to achieve the strategic objectives outlined in our 2024-2027 plan.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Leadership and Implementation

   • Lead the development and execution of CTR’s strategic plan, focusing on impactful campaigns, law reform, policy changes, collective impact, narrative change, and financial sustainability.

   • Oversee all aspects of CTR’s operations, including resource management, advocacy, and stakeholder relations.

   • Foster a culture of continuous improvement, impact evaluation, and culturally informed practices.

2. Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

   • Act as the primary spokesperson for CTR, representing the organisation in public forums, media, and with key stakeholders.

   • Build and maintain relationships with government representatives, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, philanthropic partners, and key allies in the justice and social sectors.

   • Lead advocacy efforts to influence systemic policy changes, particularly focusing on dismantling oppressive colonial structures and supporting First Nations-led justice solutions.

3. Financial and Operational Oversight

   • Ensure CTR maintains financial autonomy, securing funding to support its mission and ensuring the independence necessary for effective campaigning and advocacy.

   • Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and the management of resources to ensure sustainability and operational excellence.

   • Guide the organisation’s growth and ensure it operates within its governance and ethical standards.

4. People and Culture

   • Lead, mentor, and manage a small, dynamic team to achieve strategic objectives, fostering a collaborative, supportive, and culturally safe working environment.

   • Support the engagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly those with lived experience, in all levels of the organisation’s work.

   • Promote a self-determined governance model, ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being, and doing are embedded in all organisational practices.

5. Impact and Evaluation

• • Develop and implement robust systems to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of CTR’s campaigns and programs.

  • Drive continuous learning and improvement across all CTR activities, ensuring alignment with the strategic priorities.

SELECTION CRITERIA

1. Experience and Qualifications

   • Proven experience in senior leadership roles, ideally within the not-for-profit and/or advocacy sector, with a focus on law reform, human rights, social justice, policy, or First Nations affairs.

   • A strong track record of working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and organisations.

   • Knowledge of the systemic issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, including incarceration, family violence, and systemic racism.

2. Leadership and Strategic Thinking

   • Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a small team, as well as manage and develop strong relationships with stakeholders.

   • Experience in developing and executing strategic plans, ensuring alignment with mission and goals.

   • Ability to navigate complex and sensitive political, social, and community dynamics.

3. Financial and Governance Skills

   • Strong financial acumen, with experience in fundraising, budget management, and ensuring financial sustainability.

   • Proven ability to ensure compliance with governance and regulatory standards while maintaining organisational autonomy.

4. Cultural Competence and Commitment to Self-Determination

   • Deep understanding and commitment to promoting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination, cultural strength, and healing.

   • Experience working within First Nations-led governance structures and embedding cultural practices within organisational systems.

5. Communication and Advocacy

• • Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to represent the organisation at all levels.

  • Experience in media engagement, public speaking, and advocacy on complex issues.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Generous Leave Conditions: Enjoy 5 weeks of annual leave, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• Supportive Team Environment: Join a small, close-knit team that values collaboration, mutual support, and a shared commitment to creating meaningful change.
• Professional Development: We are committed to investing in your growth; we foster leadership and development opportunities within our organisation and the broader movement.
• Flexibility: Benefit from a flexible work environment with hybrid or remote work options, enabling you to balance your personal and professional responsibilities.
• Meaningful Impact: Play a key role in campaigns that drive real, lasting change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia.

Submit your application through Ethical Jobs. Include:

• A cover letter (max. 2 pages) addressing the essential criteria
• A CV (max. 3 pages)

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from diverse communities, including people of all genders, those with disabilities, and those from rural or remote areas. If you need accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact Stephanie Chiu, Operations & Partnerships Manager, at [email protected] using the subject line: CEO enquiry via EthicalJobs.

A position description is attached.