Chief Executive Officer - Carers SA

Adelaide
Full-Time

About the Organisation
Carers SA is the largest and only state-wide organisation in South Australia that provides supports and services for Carers across the state as well as  advocates on behalf of the needs of Carers. Carers SA provides quality, free services and support for people who care for a family member or friend living with disability, mental illness, chronic health conditions, drug and alcohol dependencies, those who frail aged or are terminally ill.   

As the lead provider of the federally funded Carer Gateway in South Australia, Carers SA delivers services for Carers of all ages including Peer Support Groups, Counselling, Tailored Support Packages, Coaching and Emergency Respite. They also provide Carer Breaks and one-on-one support for Young Carers while advocating for Carers’ voices to be heard.

Their professional workforce includes 120 staff and a team of volunteers who are Carers with lived experience who are based across both metropolitan and country South Australia, , supporting Carers of all ages, including Young Carers aged 5-25. Carers SA is dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by Carers, helping them continue in their vital roles.

Role Overview
The Chief Executive Officer of Carers SA, based in Adelaide, South Australia, plays a pivotal role in leading the organisation in alignment with its Strategic Plan, Mission, and Values. Reporting directly to the Board, the CEO is responsible for the day-to-day management and strategic direction of Carers SA. This includes providing high-level strategic advice to the Board and acting as the public face of the organisation. The CEO must have a deep understanding of the not-for-profit sector and leverage their business acumen to ensure the sustainability and growth of Carers SA. 

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience 

• Executive or senior leadership experience in the NFP sector, particularly in disability, mental health, or aged care.
• Advanced strategic planning and implementation skills.
• Strong business acumen and financial management capabilities.
• Proven leadership and coaching experience across diverse technical disciplines.
• Ability to promote a high-performing, accountable culture.
• Knowledge of contemporary leadership practices and person-centred approaches.
• Expertise in project and program development, management, and evaluation.
• Data analysis skills to inform strategic decisions.
• Inclusive interpersonal skills promoting cooperation and professional service delivery.
• Strong relationship-building, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience in leading organisational change
• Proficiency in delivering accurate and timely reports.
• Awareness of the regulatory environment for Carers SA.
• Networking and relationship-building skills to advance the Association’s agenda.
• Public relations, advocacy, and presentation skills.
• Experience and understanding of policy at a sector level and understanding of advocacy and its impact at a systemic level on the needs of Carers 
• Experience with government funding bodies is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities
The CEO of Carers SA is responsible for representing the organisation in liaison with State and Federal governments, peak organisations, the media and other key external stakeholders ensuring Carers SA is seen as a credible and influential voice for Carers. They oversee and lead community consultations and participate in relevant strategic and policy working groups. Reporting directly to the Board, the CEO provides high-level strategic advice on financial, political, and social changes affecting Carers, whilst promoting the strategic plan to stakeholders, and communicating strategic issues with the Board. 

The role also involves developing communication networks and strategic alliances, reviewing trends for membership growth, and identifying external funding sources. The CEO oversees and leads service innovation, ensures compliance with funding guidelines, and promotes the strategic plan to external stakeholders. They act as the Public Officer, ensuring compliance with legislative requirements, oversee financial performance and risk management, and provide leadership across the organisation. The CEO will promote a safe, respectful, and empowering culture and ensures Carers SA is a child-safe organisation.

For further information please contact Bec Lynas on 08 7170 5393 or email bec.lynas@harrisonmcmillan.com.au

Please note – all applicant resumes must be submitted in Word format only.