Head of Rural Horizons

Overview Become part of the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal – the only national foundation focused on strengthening remote, rural and regional communities across Australia. This full‑time role offers a unique opportunity to shape the Foundation’s place‑based strategy and programs, empowering communities to lead change, influence systems and create lasting impacts. The position is remote/hybrid and requires the candidate to reside within a two‑hour drive of Melbourne (Naarm) or Sydney (Warrane). Salary ranges from $129,000 to $134,000 (FTE) per annum, excluding superannuation. Role summary As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, the Head of Rural Horizons leads the Executive team’s portfolio of initiatives that partner with rural and remote communities to co‑create solutions to shared challenges. The role provides strategic leadership and oversight while remaining deeply engaged, testing new models with communities, collaborating across sectors, and embedding learning back into FRRR’s programs. Who you are (selection criteria) You hold tertiary qualifications in community development, philanthropy or related fields and ideally have first‑hand experience working with rural, regional or remote communities, with a deep appreciation for place‑based approaches. You are a strategic and driven leader who possesses a systems‑thinking mindset and is comfortable navigating ambiguity, testing new models, and translating insights into practice. You are passionate about working with and empowering young people as changemakers, with experience designing or supporting initiatives that amplify youth leadership. You demonstrate strong cultural competence and a deep respect for First Nations peoples, with experience working collaboratively and strengths‑based with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. You have deep experience building the capacity of not‑for‑profit and community organisations, applying a place‑based lens to strengthen local leadership, systems and sustainability. You are a connector and translator across philanthropy, government and community sectors, skilled at bringing diverse perspectives together to identify shared priorities and foster collective action. You are confident in representing your organisation in strategic forums and collaborations, advocating for community organisations in rural and remote resilience and leadership. You bring exceptional stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills, fostering trust‑based relationships with key partners and stakeholders. You are a collaborative and empowering people leader who invests in capability and culture, building teams that are accountable, connected and driven by purpose. Research indicates that while men apply to jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other marginalised individuals often wait until they fulfil every requirement. If you believe you have the attributes to do the job but don’t match every point, we welcome and encourage your application. Key responsibilities Provide vision and leadership for the Rural Horizons portfolio, working closely with the CEO to align with FRRR’s overall strategy and priorities. Lead exploration and testing of new models of community‑led and next‑gen‑focused engagement, both in Australia and internationally. Lead and mentor a high‑performing Rural Horizons team, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation and shared success. Collaborate with FRRR colleagues to integrate new approaches into our grant‑making and capacity‑building programs. For a more detailed position description, please review this PDF . Who we are FRRR (Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal) supports remote, rural and regional communities across Australia to be vibrant, resilient and sustainable. We catalyse locally led solutions, especially in areas facing systemic challenges, and focus on five cross‑cutting themes: next‑generation transition, outback and very remote communities, climate solutions, disaster resilience and First Nations self‑determination. Our 2026–2028 Strategic Plan FRRR’s 2026–2028 Strategic Plan is a catalytic initiative recognising that rural and remote communities are vital to Australia’s identity, wellbeing and future. The plan is grounded in community‑led development, collaboration and a profound understanding of complexity and system change. It emphasises: Working in a place‑based way that embraces community diversity. Partnering with First Nations people and communities. Supporting young people and the next generation. Engaging strategically with climate change and disaster resilience challenges. Delivering on this strategy requires a team that will elevate the plan, bringing energy, expertise and experience to ensure FRRR achieves catalytic, enduring impact for the next generation of rural and remote Australia. What we offer Flexible hours and the option to work hybrid or fully remote, supporting balance and wellbeing. Ongoing professional development, including an annual staff conference hosted in regional Australia. A culture of growth and innovation where new ideas are welcomed and contributions have tangible impact. A highly skilled, values‑driven and committed team. The chance to be part of a nationally reputable organisation making real, lasting impact. Access to confidential support and counselling through our Employee Assistance Program. Convenient office amenities for those working from our Bendigo CBD office. The opportunity to shape the future of rural and remote Australia. Additional adjustments We are committed to providing an inclusive experience to all candidates. If you have a disability, condition, illness or access requirements, please let us know how we can best support you during the recruitment process. Contact us at . Our candidate experience We aim to be transparent and kind to all candidates. We value your time, and share how we do things so you know what to expect with no nasty surprises. For more information on our end‑to‑end candidate experience, visit the SHE HR Consulting website. How to apply Submit an online application through our portal and include a professional resume. All applicants must also provide brief responses to the application questions included in the online application. We do not accept cover letters. We’ll be reviewing applications as they come in and progressing conversations with candidates throughout the process. Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday, December 7. All applicants will receive an update on the outcome, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly. FRRR is an equal‑opportunity employer and strives to maintain a workplace that is fair, discrimination‑free, safe, accessible and accommodates the diverse needs of staff. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, culturally‑and‑linguistically‑diverse backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people and people of all identities. Employment is conditional upon reference checks and a Working With Children Check (or state equivalent). Police checks are part of the screening process, but a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you. Reference checks and background checks are required. #J-18808-Ljbffr