Chief Executive Officer - Australian Society of Authors

Sydney
Full Time

An exciting opportunity to lead Australia’s peak body for authors and illustrators.

About the ASA

The Australian Society of Authors (ASA) is the peak body, professional association, community and voice of Australia’s writers and illustrators. We offer expert advice, provide professional development opportunities, nurture meaningful connections and advocate on behalf of creators for fair pay, fair contracts and robust copyright protections. 

We are a vibrant, growing, and caring organisation passionate about Australia’s literary creators. We have recently secured funding for a number of new programs and roles, and our new CEO will have the opportunity to build on the current strengths and successes of the organisation to further develop its programs, services, and advocacy efforts.

About the role

We are recruiting for a Chief Executive Officer who can lead the organisation through a time of great change in the book industry.

Working closely with our executive team and the Board, your role will involve:

Advocacy

• Advocating for the interests of Australian authors and illustrators, including collaborating with other industry bodies, advocating within the sector, and to government.

Programs and Services

• Planning and overseeing the delivery of programs and services for members to support author careers, foster member engagement, and drive membership growth.

Financial

• Managing the financial operations of the organisation.

Governance

• Developing and implementing the ASA’s strategic plan
• Ensuring the organisation meets all regulatory requirements.

Management

• Managing staff on a day-to-day basis, and providing support and oversight as required.

Stakeholder liaison

• Acting as spokesperson for the ASA for media, and representing the organisation on industry boards and panels.

About you

The ideal candidate will have:

• Demonstrable experience in managing a dynamic organisation, preferably in the advocacy or not-for-profit sectors
• Ability to manage and motivate a busy, capable team, and deliver multiple services to a national membership 
• Understanding of the legal and economic issues facing Australian writers and illustrators, and knowledge of the Australian book industry 
• Demonstrable expertise in financial management, governance, media relations and government liaison
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to engage in strategic policy discussions and present as thought leader
• A professional demeanour and excellent interpersonal skills. 

Culture and benefits

Working within the ASA office in the creative hub of Ultimo, NSW, you will lead the ASA’s small team and the services provided to its 4000+ members across Australia, which includes debut, emerging, established, and bestselling authors and illustrators.

The role is office-based, with the option of working from home one day per week. An onsite car park is available for the CEO. Salary range provided upon request.

How to apply

To apply, please send a copy of your CV and a cover letter addressing how you are the ideal candidate for this role to: chair@asauthors.org by 5pm AEST on 8 August 2024. Please include the names and contact details for two referees. 

We will be in touch with you within three weeks of the closing date.

The ASA is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace and welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and experience, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons.