About us
With almost 40 years of on-the-ground action, we are dedicated to the protection of koalas and their habitat. Supported by over 250 volunteers and seven staff members, Friends of the Koala and our Northern Rivers Koala Hospital combine koala rescue and on-site rehabilitation, veterinary care, habitat creation and restoration, community education, advocacy and innovative research to make a lasting difference. We are looking for someone who can lead us through our next chapter of growth, driving the execution of strategic goals and ensuring our continued impact.
The role
As General Manager, you’ll oversee daily operations, ensuring smooth management of both our volunteer-driven initiatives and the Northern Rivers Koala Hospital. You will collaborate closely with the Management Committee, Veterinary Clinical and Research Director and veterinary team, Volunteer Coordinator and volunteer Program Coordinators to deliver on our strategic objectives. This role is perfect for a strong leader with experience in not-for-profits, managing multidisciplinary teams including staff and volunteers, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement.
Key responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership: Drive the development and execution of strategic and operational plans in line with Friends of the Koala’s mission, reporting to the Management Committee.
2. Financial Management: Develop and monitor budgets, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability.
3. Operational Management: Oversee day-to-day operations, managing staff, volunteers, and key conservation programs in collaboration with the Clinical and Research Director, Volunteer Coordinator, Regional Koala Officer and volunteer Program Coordinators.
4. Marketing, Fundraising & Partner/Donor Engagement: Lead fundraising efforts through grant applications, advertising campaigns, newsletters and social media, ensuring visibility and financial support for the organisation. Build relationships with donors, funding bodies, and partners to secure resources for our conservation work.
5. Team Leadership: Cultivate a high-performing, engaged team and foster an inclusive organisational culture.
About you
- Minimum 5 years of senior leadership experience in a medium-sized organisation.
- Demonstrated experience in financial management, fundraising, and stakeholder relations.
- Strong project management, change management and team leadership skills.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
- Knowledge of WHS principles and employment legislation.
- Passion for conservation and the not-for-profit sector, ideally with experience in wildlife or environmental organisations.
What we offer
- The opportunity to lead one of Australia’s longest standing and most dedicated koala conservation organisations.
- Flexibility in hours and work days with the ability to work from home on certain days (12-month contract for 30 or 37.5 hours per week).
- The chance to make a tangible difference in the conservation of koalas and their habitat.
- Live and work in the beautiful Northern Rivers region of New South Wales.
- Flexible start date in November, December or January (time off over Christmas period if preferred).
Join us in making a critical contribution to Australia’s biodiversity. Apply now and become a key player in protecting the future of this iconic species.
To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to *******@friendsofthekoala.org by the 18th of November.
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