We are seeking an exceptional leader to take the court at Netball NSW and shape the future of our new Foundation. As Head of Foundation, you'll be a true all-rounder – strategist, community builder, relationship creator, fundraiser and passionate advocate – working alongside our dynamic team to create life-changing opportunities through netball. Your mission? To empower people of all ages to get active, build confidence, and achieve their dreams through the power of sport and community connection.

This is a unique opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up, creating programs that will impact generations to come. If you're an experienced not-for-profit leader who lives and breathes community impact and is energized by the transformative power of sport, we want to hear from you. 

NETBALL NSW OVERVIEW

Netball NSW is a not-for-profit organisation, governed by a Board of Directors and managed by professional staff. Netball NSW is the peak state sporting organisation responsible for the governance, development, promotion and administration of netball throughout New South Wales and is a member organisation of Netball Australia.

Netball NSW provides the framework for approximately 115,000 registered members and over 150,000 total participants to enjoy netball at all levels throughout New South Wales. Our sport continues to grow both on and off the court and much of this success can be attributed to the wide range of programs, facilities and services Netball NSW offers to its members and participants - from the grassroots level through to the elite, professional level.

Netball NSW has a proud history of elite netball teams and athletes’ performances in national and international competition. Over 300 athletes have proudly represented NSW in elite competition since the inception of the national netball league in 1997 and then the ANZ Championship. 2017 saw the introduction of the Suncorp Super Netball, the top Australian domestic competition which includes two NSW elite teams, the NSW Swifts and GIANTS Netball.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The Head of Foundation will play a pivotal role in establishing and overseeing the strategic development, growth, and management of Netball NSW’s inaugural Foundation. The Head of Foundation will be responsible for leading fundraising initiatives, building and managing donor relations, building community partnerships, and working closely with the Communities team to ensure programs are aligned with the Foundation’s purpose. The Foundation Manager will work closely with senior leadership, staff, and external stakeholders to ensure the Foundation’s objectives are met and its impact is maximised.

The Foundation’s mission is to provide authentic and positive long-lasting impacts so that all members of our community grow and thrive. We will achieve our mission through being inclusive and brave and ensuring that we are a contributor to community outcomes through education initiatives, participation opportunities and removing barriers to provide true choice and opportunity.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising Strategy and execution

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to support the Foundation’s programs and initiatives.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with potential major donors, corporate partners, foundations, and community organisations.
• Lead and manage fundraising events, campaigns, and donor recognition programs.
• Set and track annual fundraising goals, working with the corporate sales and leadership teams to ensure revenue targets are met.

Donor Relations & Stewardship

• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with existing and prospective donors, sponsors, and partners.
• Oversee donor communications, including regular updates, impact reports, and appreciation efforts.
• Ensure the Foundation’s donor database is updated and managed effectively

Program Reporting & Management

• Work closely with the General Manager of Communities and the Communities team to oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of Foundation programs and initiatives.
• Manage the grant-making process, including identifying funding needs, writing proposals, and ensuring compliance with grant requirements.
• Work closely with the General Manager of Communities and the Communities team to track and report on the effectiveness of programs and ensure they align with the Foundation’s overall goals.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with funders, community groups, partners, and stakeholders.
• Represent the Foundation at Netball NSW and community events, meetings, and conferences to promote the Foundation’s purpose.
• Collaborate with Netball NSW, NSW Swifts and GIANTS Netball leadership, marketing, and communications teams to ensure alignment across the organisation.

Financial & Budget Management

• Prepare and manage the Foundation’s budget, ensuring financial goals are met and resources are allocated appropriately.
• Ensure transparency and accountability in the Foundation’s financial operations, including compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Provide regular financial reports to the leadership team and the Netball NSW Board.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Candidates for the position will require a range of personal and professional skills including:

Qualifications and experience

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, or program development, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of successful fundraising and donor cultivation.
• Experience in managing budgets, financial reporting, and grant compliance.
• Knowledge of netball, community engagement, and sport for social change programs is a plus.

Knowledge and skills

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with donors, partners, and stakeholders.
• Strong leadership, management, and team-building mentality.
• Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and project management abilities.
• Ability to think strategically and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Event management and delivery experience
• Proficiency with donor management systems, fundraising software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of sports and community development initiatives is an asset.

Personal attributes

• Passion for making a difference to people’s lives through the power of sport.
• Professional and proactive attitude.
• Creative thinker and ability to develop new ideas and innovative solutions.
• Ability to work autonomously and within a team environment.
• Commitment to Netball NSW Values.
• Prepared work out of office and flexible hours on occasion.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

• A fundraising strategy is in place and the Foundation’s annual fundraising goals are met
• Financial and Impact reporting is accurate, timely and shared with relevant stakeholders
• Fundraising events are profitable, enjoyable and well attended and actively promote the Foundation’s purpose
• Foundation donors are regularly communicated with and satisfied with the Foundation’s delivery of it’s purpose

CHILD SAFE ORGANISATION

Please note: Netball NSW is committed to protecting Children from harm. We require all applicants that will work with children to undergo an extensive screening process prior to appointment. All candidates must have a valid Working with Children Check.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Netball NSW is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. We encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds including but not limited to, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; people from culturally diverse backgrounds; young people; older workers; people with disabilities; the LGBTQIA+ community; and other under-represented groups.

WHY WORK FOR US?

NNSW strives to offer a range of benefits to support a healthy work environment and a sustainable work-life balance, no matter your role and stage in life.

• Additional leave day for your Birthday;
• Free parking for those that have to drive to work or 800m walk to Sydney Olympic Park Train Station;
• NNSW funded membership with the Connected Membership exclusively for Sydney Olympic Park employees, residents and students providing everyday discounts and exclusive offers including free admission offers and discounted tickets for events at Sydney Olympic Park.
• Free and discounted tickets to NSW Swifts and GIANTS Netball home games;
• Pawsivity - bring your four-legged friend to work so you can enjoy their happy presence while you work;
• Wellness programs including: our Employment Assistance Program (EAP); NNSW lunchtime league social sports teams in volleyball, netball, soccer and touch footy.

A position description is attached.