Lead strategy. Build influence. Strengthen sustainability. Shape a culture that enables impact
The organisation
Welfare Rights Centre is a specialist community legal centre helping people across NSW who have a problem with Centrelink. For more than 40 years, WRC has provided free legal information, advice and representation, built the capability of community workers, and advocated for a fair, just, accessible and adequate social security system.
In 2025, WRC helped more than 1,500 people and delivered legal information and advice on more than 1,800 occasions. Its influence also extends beyond individual casework through community education, strategic advocacy and law reform.
The opportunity
This is a pivotal leadership role at an important point in Welfare Rights Centre’s evolution. Reporting to the Board, the new CEO will lead WRC through its next phase – sharpening strategy, strengthening its funding base, building trusted relationships with senior decision makers and stewarding a positive, high-performing culture through change.
The Board is looking for a dynamic and courageous leader who is comfortable with both mission and money. You will bring political nous, financial acumen and an entrepreneurial outlook, with a track record of turning relationships and opportunities into sustainable funding or revenue.
Your four priorities
- Strategy – Set direction, make choices and lead implementation. Develop a sustainable operating and funding model that protects WRC’s purpose and grows its impact.
- Representation & fundraising – Be WRC’s senior external representative. Build influence across government, philanthropy, partners and the community, and convert relationships into sustainable income and opportunities.
- People leadership – Steward a healthy, inclusive and high-performing culture. Lead change well, strengthen leadership capability and create clarity, trust and accountability.
- Operations – Ensure strong financial management, governance, risk, compliance and operational discipline, with systems and resources aligned to strategy.
What you will bring
- Executive leadership experience with a strong track record in strategy and organisational change.
- Demonstrated success securing and diversifying funding or revenue – such as government tenders and grants, philanthropy, partnerships, fee-for-service or other income streams.
- Strong financial acumen and the confidence to manage cash flow, budgets, trade-offs and organisational sustainability.
- Political judgement and credibility with senior government and external stakeholders.
- Exceptional people leadership, with evidence of building positive culture and navigating change.
- Outstanding communication, advocacy and relationship-building skills.
- A deep commitment to social justice and a genuine interest in the role of social security in enabling dignity and participation.
Why join Welfare Rights Centre?
- Lead an organisation with a distinctive specialist role and more than four decades of impact.
- Work with a committed Board and expert team at a moment when strong leadership can materially shape the future.
- Influence policy, funding and partnerships that affect people experiencing disadvantage across NSW.
- Bring commercial and entrepreneurial thinking to a deeply purpose-led organisation.
How to apply
Please submit a current CV and a concise cover letter (maximum 2 pages) outlining your interest and how your experience aligns with the four priorities for the role.
For a confidential discussion, request further information and to submit your application please email [email protected].
Applications close Sunday 13 September 2026.
Welfare Rights Centre welcomes applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences and is committed to an accessible and inclusive recruitment process.
This role has also been advertised on Ethical Jobs, Koori Mail, NCOSS and the CLCNSW Jobs Board.