Overview of WWAC:

The Wamba Wemba Aboriginal Corporation (WWAC) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation, focused on the preservation, promotion, and revitalisation of Wamba Wemba culture, language, and heritage. WWAC is registered with the Corporations Aboriginal Torres Strait Ilsander Act 2006 (CATSI Act) ICN 7839. WWAC was announced as a Registered Aboriginal Party by the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council in August 2024.

The main objectives of the WWAC include:

• Improving the health and wellbeing of the Wamba Wemba People;
• Advancing the sovereignty and self-determination of the Wamba Wemba People;
• Maintaining and strengthening the identity and culture of the Wamba Wemba People;
• And to protect and maintain all lands claimed and to develop and implement cultural heritage programs.

Job Purpose:

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Wamba Wemba Aboriginal Corporation is responsible for providing strategic leadership and management of the corporation, ensuring that it operates in alignment with its mandate to protect, manage, and promote Aboriginal cultural heritage under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Victoria).

The CEO will work closely with the Wamba Wemba Board of Directors, Gnerrick Gnerricks, Wamba Wemba community, government agencies, developers, and other stakeholders to ensure that cultural heritage is respected, protected, and managed sustainably.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Strategic Management:

• Lead the development and implementation of the WWAC’s strategic direction in line with its mission to protect and manage Aboriginal cultural heritage.
• Ensure WWAC meets its legislative obligations under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and other relevant regulations.
• Provide leadership to the corporation, fostering a positive workplace culture that promotes cultural integrity, accountability, and innovation.
• Report regularly to the Board of Directors, providing updates on operations, cultural heritage protection, and corporation performance.

2. Cultural Heritage Protection & Advocacy:

• Oversee the assessment and approval of Cultural Heritage Management Plans (CHMPs) and ensure compliance with cultural heritage protection protocols.
• Manage the protection and preservation of significant Aboriginal sites, working with landowners, developers, and Traditional Owners to minimise impacts on cultural heritage.
• Advocate for the rights of Traditional Owners in all decisions related to cultural heritage protection and ensure their central role in decision-making.
• Ensure that all activities and projects adhere to cultural protocols and respect Aboriginal cultural rights.

3. Community Engagement & Traditional Owner Relationships:

• Engage with Wamba Wemba members to ensure their input and guidance on cultural heritage matters.
• Foster strong, respectful relationships with the Wamba Wemba community, ensuring their views and values are central to WWAC’s decision-making processes.
• Promote community awareness and education on Aboriginal cultural heritage issues.
• Act as the key representative for WWAC in community forums, government discussions, and public events.

4. Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:

• Build and maintain relationships with government bodies, developers, industry, and non-government corporations to promote and protect Aboriginal cultural heritage.
• Collaborate with local councils, state agencies, and other Traditional Owner groups to enhance cultural heritage outcomes.
• Negotiate and manage agreements with stakeholders, ensuring that cultural heritage values are protected in all land-use planning and development decisions.

5. Governance & Compliance:

• Ensure that WWAC operates in accordance with the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006, Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and other legal frameworks.
• Maintain high standards of corporate governance, ensuring transparency, ethical conduct, and accountability in all of WWAC’s operations.
• Provide timely and accurate reporting to the Board of Directors, ensuring that key decisions are well-informed and aligned with the corporations strategic objectives.
• Oversee risk management strategies, particularly regarding compliance with cultural heritage obligations and land use impacts.

6. Operational Management & Financial Stewardship:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of WWAC, ensuring the effective management of resources, staff, and operational functions.
• Develop and manage WWAC’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability and efficient use of resources.
• Identify and secure funding opportunities, including government grants, consultancy services, and partnerships, to support the corporation’s objectives.
• Lead efforts to continuously improve operational efficiency and service delivery.

7. Staff Management & Development:

• Lead, mentor, and support WWAC staff, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Recruit, train, and manage staff, ensuring professional development opportunities are available.
• Promote cultural awareness and understanding within the team, ensuring all staff adhere to cultural protocols and values.
• Ensure the corporation’s policies and practices comply with workplace safety, health, and employment regulations.

Key Selection Criteria:

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience in a senior leadership role, preferably within an Aboriginal corporation or within the cultural heritage or not-for-profit sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of Aboriginal cultural heritage, particularly in Victoria and the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006, First People Assembly of Victoria.
• Experience working with Aboriginal communities, Traditional Owners, and other key stakeholders on land management or cultural heritage issues.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, governance, and organisational development.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation.

Skills and Competencies:

• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and complex relationships with cultural sensitivity and respect.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with a focus on capacity building and professional development.
• High level of integrity, with a commitment to transparency and accountability.
• Strong understanding of Aboriginal cultural protocols and practices, particularly in the context of cultural heritage protection.

Desirable:

• Tertiary qualifications in cultural heritage management, business administration, or a related field.
• Experience in managing cultural heritage permits, land agreements, and compliance processes.
• Understanding of environmental sustainability practices, particularly in relation to land use and development.

Personal Attributes:

• A deep respect for Aboriginal culture and heritage, with a strong commitment to promoting and protecting it.
• A collaborative and inclusive leadership style, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage complex challenges in a dynamic environment.
• A proactive and innovative mindset, with a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.

Click 'Apply Now' to submit your application. 

Successful candidates will need to provide evidence of a current National Police Clearance and Working With Children's Check.

A position description is attached.