- Lead a contemporary community foundation
- 40-year regional philanthropic institution
- Enable community-led change, in the region and beyond
About the organisation
For more than 40 years, Ballarat Foundation has connected community generosity with opportunities to strengthen Ballarat and the surrounding region. As a trusted community foundation, it brings together philanthropy, local knowledge, strategic partnerships and community insights to address local challenges and opportunities. Through grant-making, research, philanthropic development, and collaborative initiatives, the Foundation is now entering an exciting new chapter. Building on decades of success, it is evolving its role as a contemporary community foundation strengthening the relationships, capability and knowledge that enable communities to thrive.
About the role
Reporting to the Board, the Chief Executive Officer plays a central role in advancing the Foundation's vision, bringing together people, partnerships and resources to create lasting community impact. Leading strategy, people, operations and finances, the CEO will build strong relationships across the community, philanthropic, business and government sectors while supporting a capable, values-driven team. A key focus will be growing the Foundation's endowment through sub-funds, planned giving and new funding partnerships, ensuring resources are available to support community aspirations for generations to come. The role also oversees grantmaking, community intelligence and research initiatives, including the Vital Signs program, and provides strategic advice to the Board on governance, performance and risk. Success will require a collaborative and influential leader who can connect people around a shared purpose, champion community-led solutions, and turn ideas into meaningful and measurable outcomes.
About you
Passionate about creating meaningful impact in regional communities, you are an accomplished and approachable leader with experience in organisational leadership, governance, financial management and stakeholder engagement. You build trusted relationships across community, government, business and philanthropic sectors, translating opportunities into sustainable outcomes. Collaborative and influential, you communicate with clarity, navigate complexity with confidence, and inspire others around a shared purpose. You will be adept at leading a highly capable, values-driven team and fostering a culture that delivers lasting community impact. Experience in philanthropy, grantmaking, community foundations or related sectors will be highly regarded. Energised by purpose and inspired by community-led change, you are ready to make a lasting contribution as CEO of the Foundation.
How to apply
See the Candidate Brief for more information or click ‘ Apply Now’ to submit your application (CV and a concise cover letter). For a confidential discussion after reviewing the brief, please call Nick Ward-Ambler on +61 499 859 518 or email him at nick.ward.ambler@shk.com.au. Direct and third-party applications will be forwarded to SHK. Close date 4 November (11.59pm).
