Are you a strategic leader ready to shape what comes next by bringing people, ideas and opportunities together? Then join us at DJAARA!
- Dja Dja Wurrung Country (Bendigo Location)
- Full-Time Position (38 hours per week)
- 3 Year executive agreement
- Not for profit salary packaging options
- Remuneration commensurate with experience
About DJAARA
At DJAARA, the future holds exciting possibilities. With a proud legacy, a unique purpose and a growing range of opportunities ahead, we’re continuing to build on what we’ve achieved and explore what’s possible for the future.
Our work creates opportunities to make a lasting difference for Djaara people, Country and Community. As we look ahead, there is enormous potential to continue to grow our impact, embrace new ideas and take our work in exciting new directions.
We’re looking for three executive leaders to bring their experience, ideas and ambition to this next chapter. These are opportunities to shape what comes next, turn possibilities into action and contribute to work that is meaningful, purpose-driven, and leaves a lasting legacy.
About the Role
As the Chief Operations Officer, you’ll be a key member of the Dja Dja Wurrung Group Executive Leadership Team, working with the CEO and Executive Leadership Team to deliver organisational priorities and support the DJAARA’s long-term aspirations.
You’ll lead People and Capability, Information Technology, Creative Hub, and Events and Venues. This is an opportunity to shape these functions, strengthen organisational capability and ensure people, systems and resources support DJAARA’s strategic direction.
You’ll lead planning, performance and governance across your portfolio, support and develop managers, and drive initiatives that improve organisational effectiveness.
Working with the CEO, Board and operational leaders, you’ll help translate strategy into action and support strong, sustainable performance.
About you
You’re an experienced executive leader who can translate strategy into action, lead diverse functions and deliver measurable organisational outcomes.
You bring strong operational and financial acumen, sound judgement and the ability to balance strategic priorities with effective delivery. You know how to build capable teams, strengthen accountability and identify opportunities to improve systems, processes and performance.
You’re confident working with executives, Boards and diverse stakeholders, building trusted relationships and influencing decisions. You lead collaboratively, embrace continuous improvement and understand the importance of cultural safety, and Djaara cultural values and authority.
What you’ll bring:
- Tertiary qualifications in Business, Business Management, Human Resources or a related discipline.
- Significant senior executive experience overseeing organisation-wide services and leading complex change.
- Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and building a safe, engaged and high-performing workplace.
- Strong financial and operational acumen, including budget management and resource planning.
- Experience improving systems, implementing technology and driving continuous improvement.
- Strong governance, risk management and compliance capabilities.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing and relationship-building skills.
- A commitment to Aboriginal self-determination, cultural safety and Dja Dja Wurrung values and aspirations.
Experience in an Aboriginal organisation, Traditional Owner Corporation, Native Title body or community-controlled organisation would be highly regarded however not essential. Knowledge of government funding, Aboriginal community governance, Treaty or Yoorrook would also be valuable.
What DJAARA Offers.
At DJAARA, you can contribute to meaningful work while building your career and enjoying benefits that support your wellbeing and work-life balance.
- Meaningful and rewarding work that contributes to positive outcomes for the community.
- Training and career development opportunities.
- Not-for-profit salary packaging options, including eligible personal expenses.
- Additional salary packaging options for eligible dining and accommodation expenses.
- Flexible work options, with work-life balance actively encouraged.
- Access to a free and confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- An attractive remuneration package commensurate with experience.
How to apply
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.
Please select APPLY NOW to submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the advertisement may close early, so we encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.
The recruitment process is expected to involve two interview stages, with further details provided to shortlisted candidates.
Applicants must have full working rights in Australia and be willing to undergo the required pre-employment checks and fit-for-work assessment.
Need more information?
If you require additional information, please contact Cassandra Lewis for a yarn at ceo@djadjawurrung.com.au
The Position Description provides further information about the role, including its primary purpose, key responsibilities and selection criteria.
APPLY NOW – Applications closing on Sunday 8 November 2026.
Position Description – Chief-Operations-Officer
