Chief Executive Officer

About the job

Lead an independent conservation organisation through its next phase and help protect Victoria’s natural places, wildlife and ecological systems.

The Victorian National Parks Association is an independent, membership-based charity that has helped protect Victoria’s national parks, protected areas, special places and wildlife for more than 70 years.

VNPA advocates for evidence-based policy, connects people with nature, and works with members, volunteers, First Nations, community partners, scientists, government and supporters to secure lasting outcomes for nature.

We are seeking a Chief Executive Officer to provide strategic, organisational and public leadership as VNPA refreshes its strategy, strengthens organisational capacity, diversifies income, deepens community engagement and continues effective advocacy for nature protection across Victoria.

We are after a candidate who views this as a long-term leadership position for the organisation. Building respectful and trusting internal and external relationships takes time and is essential to be able to achieve our vision

The opportunity

As CEO, you will:

• Lead VNPA’s strategy, campaigns, public advocacy, policy influence and communications, aligned with Board-approved priorities and VNPA’s independent conservation purpose.
• Work constructively with government, public agencies, First Nations, conservation partners, scientists, members, supporters, donors and community advocates while protecting VNPA’s independence and credibility.
• Strengthen VNPA’s financial sustainability by developing revenue pathways across membership, supporters, donors, bequests, philanthropy, grants and partnerships.
• Build a clear, accountable and values-aligned organisation where staff and volunteers can contribute safely and effectively.
• Provide sound financial, governance, compliance and risk leadership, including clear reporting and disciplined advice to the Board.
• Act as a credible public representative for VNPA and a trusted conservation leader across Victoria.

This is a role for someone who can hold both advocacy and stewardship. You will need the judgement to influence in contested public policy environments while maintaining trust, evidence, independence and long-term purpose.

About you

You are a senior leader with environmental campaign credibility, public policy judgement and a deep commitment to nature conservation.

You may come from a conservation, environmental, advocacy, public policy, member-based, philanthropic, public-sector or not-for-profit background.

You bring:

• Senior leadership experience in a relevant mission-driven organisation.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Victorian environmental or conservation policy, such as public land management, biodiversity, planning, national parks, marine protection, forestry transition, fire and ecological management, invasive species or related areas.
• The ability to translate complex environmental, policy and scientific issues for different audiences.
• Organisational, financial, people and partnership leadership, including income diversification, fundraising and stakeholder coalition-building.
• Experience working with Boards, Councils or governance bodies, with sound understanding of governance, risk, compliance, accountability and decision-making.

You will be principled, politically astute, calm under pressure and able to work effectively with campaigners, members, public-sector decision-makers, donors, conservation partners and community advocates without being partisan.

Established Victorian conservation, public-sector, philanthropic, scientific or community networks will be well regarded. Experience with member-based organisations, supporter mobilisation, digital advocacy, First Nation relationships, philanthropy, major donors or organisational renewal will also be advantageous.

Employment details

Location: Melbourne-based, with hybrid working arrangements
Employment basis: Full-time, Permanent Contract
Remuneration: Base Salary $160,000 plus superannuation, commensurate with the candidate’s skills and experience  
Travel: Victorian travel is expected; occasional interstate travel may be required
Out-of-hours commitments: Some evening and weekend commitments will be required for Board and committee meetings, stakeholder engagement, public events, member activities and campaign needs.

• For a full overview of the role, including the selection criteria, key responsibilities and eligibility requirements, please refer to the Position Description attached below.
• The successful candidate will be required to undertake a satisfactory National Police Check and Working Children Check prior to commencement.