About the Company

Aboriginal Hostels Limited (AHL) is an Indigenous Portfolio Body within the Prime Minister and Cabinet portfolio and operates as a not-for-profit Commonwealth Company. For over 50 years, AHL has provided culturally safe, resident-centred hostel accommodation, supporting First Nations people to access employment, education, and services. AHL is at inflection point, with financial sustainability pressures and increasing demand for services.

The organisation operates under the Corporations Act 2001 and other regulatory frameworks, with its strategic direction set by a Ministerially-appointed Board of Directors. The CEO, appointed by the Board in consultation with the Minister for Indigenous Australians, oversees daily operations and implements Board-approved policies and strategies.

About the Role

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) leads AHL, driving its strategic vision and operational performance to improve the quality of life and opportunities for First Nations people. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO ensures the effective management of resources, oversees strategic partnerships, and aligns services with government priorities and community needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead AHL's strategic direction as set by the Board, develop and implementing annual business plans and budgets.
• Champion organisational change to achieve financial sustainability and respond to changing market needs.
• Manage a diverse workforce, including up to five direct reports and over 300 indirect reports.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with the Board, government agencies, and community stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and governance requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement in service delivery and workplace health and safety.

Essential Skills & Attributes

• Proven leadership and organisational transformation experience in business, government, or community organisations.
• Strong strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy skills.
• Demonstrated cultural leadership and sensitivity to First Nations communities and culture.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing large, geographically dispersed teams and budgets.

Personal Attributes

• Visionary, empathetic, and resilient leader.
• Committed to social justice and empowering First Nations communities.
• Inclusive team builder with strong decision-making capabilities.
• Flexible and willing to travel extensively.

Qualifications

Relevant tertiary qualifications and/or significant experience in commercial business practices.

Employment Details

• Tenure: Specified term of up to 5 years will be offered.
• Location: Canberra, Brisbane, Darwin, Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne or Perth.
• Remuneration: $367,810 per annum (including salary, superannuation, and additional benefits such as salary packaging and allowances).
• be able to obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting Level 1 security clearance, or hold a current security clearance of an appropriate level.

Eligibility

This position is open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander candidates as an Affirmative Measure under section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975. Applicants must provide confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent and meet other eligibility criteria, including Australian Citizenship and security clearance requirements.

How to Apply

An application will consist of a statement of claims (up to 1000 words) addressing your interest in the role, relevant skills, career achievements, and leadership attributes. Please also include an up-to-date resume including contact details for two referees.

Please reach out to the below contacts for a detailed candidate information pack to assist in your written application.

Bryan Creith: bryan@fprs.com.au or Marisa Conlon: marisa@fprs.com.au

Please submit applications via the APPLY button in Word format only by 11:59pm (AEDT) Monday, 10 February 2025.

FIRST PEOPLE Recruitment Solutions is a majority Aboriginal owned agency providing contingent contracts, fixed term contracts and permanent recruitment solutions to Government and Corporate Australia.

Our Head Office is based in Canberra with a national reach to all the states and territories, regional and remote areas of Australia.

FIRST PEOPLE Recruitment Solutions acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures; and to elders past, present and emerging.