Executive Officer

Location: Sydney or Melbourne, Australia or (negotiable) Lead the global justice organisation of the Australian union movement. Deliver a dynamic agenda to strengthen global solidarity and build resilient movements in a rapidly evolving global context. Drive the development of campaigns and programs with a clear strategic focus on strengthening unions and allied movements. ABOUT THE ORGANISATION Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA is the global justice organisation of the Australian trade union movement. We work globally in partnership for the achievement of dignity at work, social justice, economic equality and the realisation of human rights. We work to achieve this through strong unions and social movements, sustainable development programs, global solidarity, and support in times of crisis. We’re seeking a dynamic, values-driven Executive Officer to lead Union Aid Abroad into its next chapter of international solidarity impact. OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA’s Executive Officer works in collaboration with our Board and senior management team to deliver the organisation’s strategic vision, strengthen partnerships and drive sustainable fundraising and program impact. This leadership role is responsible for strategic and financial oversight, including fundraising strategy, strategic partnerships, team culture and program outcomes in Australia and internationally. The Executive Officer is responsible for the organisation’s international development program across 19 locations including those delivered through four offices in Southeast Asia, and the national program which includes education, information and fundraising programs in Australia. This position serves as a vital link between Australian unions, donors, partner organisations and our in-country teams, championing Union Aid Abroad’s purpose and amplifying the transformative stories made possible by our union community. The role involves representation to government and in national/international forums, while fostering strong, engaged relationships with Australian and global trade unions. The Executive Officer is accountable for organisational governance, compliance with regulatory obligations, and oversight of due diligence processes and also serves as the organisation’s Public Officer. SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES The key responsibilities of the Executive Officer are: Providing leadership and strategic direction to the organisation, including staff management and partnership relationships. Ensuring the long-term financial growth and stability of the organisation, including planning and fundraising, forward budgets and risk management. Ensuring the development of the organisation's international development program and national program align with its strategic directions. Building and maintaining strong relationships with unions, donors, members and volunteers, governments and the general community. Effectively representing Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA as its public face maintaining its public profile and acting as media spokesperson as required. Ensuring governance, standards and contractual obligations of the organisation are met. Manage legal, compliance and registration procedures with relevant state, federal and international bodies including with the ACNC. Co-ordinating Union Aid Abroad - APHEDA's ongoing strategic planning, ensuring consistency with the policies and philosophy of the organisation and the ACTU. SELCTION CRITERIA Leadership experience within the trade union movement, not-for-profit international development sector or equivalent. Proven success in building and nurturing strategic partnerships and donor relationships. Effective financial management and fundraising experience. Ability to lead and implement initiatives that build organisational capacity and solidarity across unions and allied movements. High-level political judgement. Experience in media relations and public advocacy, with the ability to represent Union Aid Abroad - APHEDA's values and mission. The ability to lead, inspire, motivate and develop teams operating across cultures and with feedback. High emotional intelligence, authenticity, and a deep respect for collaboration and cultural humility. Proven commitment to union values, social justice and international solidarity. A passion for locally-led development. Experience in risk management in fragile or high-risk contexts. Experience with DFAT-funded international development programming is an advantage. REPORTS TO: Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA Board FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIPS: Board members, International and Australia-based staff of Union Aid Abroad, international partner organisations including global and local unions and civil society organisations, Australian trade unions. Location: Based in Sydney or Melbourne or other location by negotiation OTHER TERMS: This position involves international and domestic travel. Competitive salary and access to salary packaging. Terms and conditions of employment according to the Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA Enterprise Agreement, which includes 15% superannuation and family-friendly conditions. 4 weeks annual leave. Additional leave for Xmas-New Year shutdown period. Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA is committed to child protection and prevention of sexual abuse and exploitation. Any offer of employment will require a National Police Certificate (or local equivalent/ Statutory Declaration) and endorsement of Union Aid Abroad - APHEDA’s Code of Conduct and Child Protection Code of Conduct. We value diversity and encourage individuals of diverse backgrounds including but not limited to those from the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse, the LGBTIQA+ community and those living with a disability to apply. Next steps Please submit your application via the Apply Now link below. For further information you can contact Nicole Calnan, Chair of the Board on using the subject line: Executive Officer - Sydney / Melbourne enquiry via EthicalJobs Job posted on: 19th Nov 2025 Sydney > CBD, Inner West & Eastern Suburbs Sydney; OR #J-18808-Ljbffr