Lead, Program Management

Victorian Catholic Education Authority – Melbourne VICWe have an exciting new role for an experienced program leader. The role will be responsible for overseeing complex programs that support VCEA's strategic priorities. Initially the work will be focused on key functions within the Education Integrity and Assurance team before transitioning to a broader VCEA role. Why work with VCEA As the peak body for Catholic education in Victoria, VCEA provides employees an opportunity to help shape the future of Catholic education across the state. VCEA is the voice of Catholic education in State and national matters; we receive and distribute funding from state and federal governments for Catholic schools. Providing strategic leadership and planning to ensure proper governance in Catholic education statewide. VCEA offers a purpose built new central city office location, 5 minutes walk to Parliament Station. Competitive remuneration (reflecting your experience), with generous benefits, and opportunities for career development. These benefits combined with our commitment to work life balance make VCEA an employer of choice. What you will do The Lead, Program Management will drive VCEA’s program governance by maintaining frameworks, policies and processes that ensure transparency, consistency and clear alignment with organisational priorities. Working in collaboration with internal teams, senior leaders and subject matter experts the role ensures cohesive, high quality program delivery. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong capability in optimising program resources through sound budgeting, financial management and reporting practices that promote accountability and value for money. A key focus of the role is proactively managing risk and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, Board and sub-committee expectations and broader reporting obligations. The role works closely with colleagues and stakeholders to troubleshoot issues and support continuous improvement. Initially the role will sit within the Integrity and Assurance team, part of the Education and Integrity Portfolio, before transitioning to an organisation-wide function. While positioned within the Integrity and Assurance function, the role supports strong governance, successful delivery and performance across key programs. What you’ll bring Program Support and Governance: Demonstrable experience preferable obtained in education or similar sector; supporting the management of programs and contributing to the establishment and maintenance of program governance processes. Program Planning and Delivery: Experience assisting with program planning, supporting projects to meet timelines and budgets, and contributing to reporting across regulatory, Board/sub-committee, and program contexts. Financial Management: Understanding of financial management principles and experience supporting program delivery in line with best-practice approaches. Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders. Well developed communication skills, with the ability to produce and present complex information in a clear and compelling manner. Interpersonal skills that have been refined throughout your career enabling you to engage and collaborate with a wide and diverse range of stakeholders. You will have a sharp eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to think critically and assess risks. With a proactive mindset, you’ll thrive both independently and collaboratively, meeting deadlines, managing competing priorities, and contributing to the success of the team. Qualifications and Experience Relevant tertiary qualification in Business, Engineering Risk, Audit, Legal or other relevant field. Minimum 7 years demonstratable experience in program management, PMO lead, program delivery services or Management consulting obtained in a complimentary environment. Accreditation in project management methodologies such as PRINCE2, Agile, Lean, or Six Sigma, with demonstrated experience in change influence, communication strategy, and leading complex, large-scale change. Must hold and maintain a valid Victorian driver’s licence, access to a reliable car and be willing to travel to schools in metropolitan and regional Victoria. A note on inclusion and how to apply If you are ready to make a difference in Victorian Catholic education, please submit your resume and a cover letter demonstrating how your skills and experience align with our requirements and make you the standout applicant for this role. The full position description can be found on our website: We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible for anyone who wishes to apply. If you would like further information about this role, or require any adaptations or additional support for your individual circumstances so you can perform at your best during the application or recruitment process please reach out to: ********@vcea.catholic.edu.au Advertising is scheduled to end on: 8th January 2026. We anticipate interviews to take place in person week commencing 19 January 2026. Due to the volume of applications received; only successful applicants will be contacted. Successful candidates will be required to undergo a pre-employment National Police History check, obtain a Working with Children Check and provide evidence of Australian Citizenship or Visa. #J-18808-Ljbffr