Position Overview

As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Sunshine Coast Environment Council (SCEC), you will lead the organisation through a pivotal period of strategic growth and transformation. Established in 1980, SCEC is the peak environmental advocacy body for the region, dedicated to safeguarding biodiversity, championing climate action, and promoting sustainable development.

You will play a central role in steering SCEC’s mission to protect and enhance the Sunshine Coast’s natural assets through community engagement, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships. This role is based on the Sunshine Coast, with some travel across the South East Queensland region.

Role Purpose

SCEC is seeking a visionary leader to uphold our four-decade legacy and propel our mission into the future. As SCEC’s first CEO, you will implement an ambitious five-year strategic plan, build sustainable funding sources, and expand our reach. Working with a committed team and a wide network of stakeholders, you will lead innovative initiatives to preserve the region's unique environmental heritage, inspiring collective action and fostering community resilience. This is an exceptional opportunity to advance SCEC’s impact and lead with purpose.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Vision:

• Drive the 2024–2029 Strategic Plan, ensuring alignment with SCEC’s goals in environmental protection, community engagement, and advocacy.

Fundraising and Resource Development:

• Develop and execute a diversified fundraising strategy, securing resources through grants, donations, corporate partnerships, and philanthropy to sustain SCEC’s programs.

Advocacy and Policy Leadership:

• Oversee and support SCEC’s advocacy strategy in collaboration with the Advocacy and Engagement Manager to ensure alignment with SCEC’s mission.
• Continue to build and maintain relationships with policymakers, government agencies, and key stakeholders to strengthen SCEC’s advocacy effort

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Develop strategic partnerships and foster high-level relationships to support SCEC’s mission, complementing ongoing engagement efforts led by the Advocacy and Engagement Manager.

Governance and Organisational Oversight:

• Work closely with the Management Committee to ensure effective governance, financial sustainability, risk management, and organisational growth.
• Oversee reporting, planning, and financial management to align with best practices and regulatory requirements.

Community Engagement and Outreach:

• Oversee SCEC's outreach initiatives including strategic media representation, public events, and community forums to drive awareness and participation.

Program Development and Impact:

• Develop and implement programs that address biodiversity conservation, climate action, and sustainable development, maximising SCEC’s regional impact.

Team Leadership and Development:

SCEC has an existing Advocacy and Engagement Manager that lead's SCEC’s advocacy work. The CEO will:

• Support and oversee staff, the development of advocacy positions and implementation of SCEC 's strategic goals.
• Guide strategic program development to ensure alignment with SCEC’s mission and goals, with implementation led by relevant program staff and volunteers.

Skills and Experience

Leadership and Vision:

• Demonstrated leadership in environmental or sustainability sectors with experience managing teams and executing strategic plans.

Fundraising and Resource Development:

• Proven ability to secure funding from diverse sources, including grants, donations, and partnerships.

Advocacy and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Experience in policy advocacy, with a proven track record of engaging with government and community stakeholders.
• Strong public-speaking, marketing and media skills.

Governance and Financial Management:

• Experience working with governance bodies and managing organisational finances. Knowledge of regulatory bodies such as ACNC, ASIC, and ATO is advantageous.

Community and Volunteer Engagement:

• Ability to foster community involvement and support grassroots movements, with experience in environmental education and advocacy.

Passion for the Environment:

• A deep commitment to environmental sustainability and preserving the Sunshine Coast’s natural environment.

Preferred Qualifications

While formal qualifications in environmental science, management, fundraising, communications, or a related field are advantageous, we seek a candidate with the passion, skills, and experience to lead SCEC effectively.

Interested candidates should contact SCEC’s President, Sally Jensen, via email at [email protected] using the subject line: Chief Executive Officer - Sunshine Coast enquiry via EthicalJobs.

A position description is attached.