Purpose of the Role

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides strategic and operational leadership to Country to Canberra. The CEO works closely with the Board of Directors and a national volunteer team to deliver the organisation’s strategy, strengthen partnerships and expand national impact.

This voluntary role offers a unique opportunity to lead a nationally recognised organisation supporting the next generation of regional leaders.

Why join Country to Canberra?

This is a unique opportunity to lead a nationally recognized, youth-focused, not-for-profit organisation at a pivotal time in its growth. As CEO, you will:

• Drive National impact: Directly influence the strategic direction of an organisation ensuring geography is not a barrier to leadership potential for young people across regional, rural and remote Australia.

• Build your network: Work closely with a high-calibre Board of Directors and engage with national sponsors and key stakeholders.

• Lead with purpose: Gain significant, tangible CEO-level experience in strategic oversight, governance, and team leadership, essential for career advancement.

• Foster a movement: Lead and mentor a passionate, national team of 15–20 volunteers committed to gender equity and community contribution.

Governance and Reporting

• The CEO reports to the Board of Directors (currently a 6-member board).

• The CEO leads and manages a national volunteer team of approximately 10–15 people.

Key Responsibilities

Throughout your tenure, you will be responsible for the following, with guidance and mentorship from the board.

Lead the Strategy

• Lead the delivery of Country to Canberra’s strategic priorities and programs.

• Work with the Board to refine and implement the organization’s strategy.

• Identify opportunities to expand national reach and impact.

• Ensure organizational activities align with mission and values.

Lead the Volunteer Team

• Lead, motivate and support a national volunteer team.

• Oversee recruitment, onboarding and retention of volunteers.

• Foster a collaborative, inclusive and supportive volunteer culture.

• Facilitate regular volunteer team meetings.

Engage with Board on Governance

• Provide regular reports to the Board on programs, finances, people and risks.

• Contribute to board papers, strategy discussions and planning.

• Ensure the organization operates in line with governance and compliance obligations.

Deliver Programs and Impact

• Ensure programs are delivered effectively and align with the organization’s mission.

• Monitor outcomes and support continuous improvement.

• Strengthen pathways for program participants and alumni.

Build Partnerships and External Engagement

• Represent Country to Canberra externally.

• Build and maintain relationships with sponsors, partners and supporters.

• Identify opportunities for collaboration and sponsorship.

Oversee Financials

• Oversee budgeting, expenditure and funding activities.

• Provide financial updates to the Board.

Capabilities and Experience

Successful candidates will demonstrate strengths or willingness to upskill in many of the following areas:

• Demonstrated passion for gender equity and leadership opportunities for regional young people.

• Excellent communication and public representation skills.

• Experience leading teams or volunteers.

• Experience with volunteer lead organisation.

• Strong stakeholder engagement and partnership skills.

• Strategic thinking and ability to deliver organizational priorities.

• Financial awareness and budgeting experience.

Commitment

• Approximately 8 hours per week (volunteer).

• Remote role based anywhere in Australia.

• Occasional travel may be required as part of program delivery.

Inclusion

Country to Canberra is committed to building a diverse and inclusive volunteer environment and strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, LGBTIQA+ individuals and those from regional and remote communities.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit a CV and a cover letter outlining their background, interest in the role and why they would be a strong fit for Country to Canberra, to ceo@countrytocanberra.com.au   by 4th May 2026.