Lead an organisation that has been changing lives – one story at a time – for more than 25 years.
Overview
Ironbark Aboriginal Corporation is a well‑established Aboriginal organisation in the Northern Territory, employing more than 130 staff and delivering life‑changing opportunities across the Top End. As the current CEO prepares for a transition, the Board is seeking a successor who can continue this momentum with integrity, cultural authority and purpose.
About Ironbark
At its core, Ironbark is driven by the belief that employment, opportunity and culture create stronger, healthier communities. From our base in Darwin, the organisation delivers major national employment programmes such as Remote Australia Employment Services (RAES) and Workforce Australia. It also operates a diverse group of social and commercial enterprises that create long‑term employment and local economic participation – including Aboriginal Bush Traders, RapidClean NT, Darwin Precast Products, Ironbark Accounts and Ironbark Services NT. Across every program and enterprise, the purpose remains the same: Changing lives – one story at a time.
The Role
This role calls for a leader who brings cultural grounding, commercial thinking and a deep commitment to community. As CEO, you will lead the strategic direction of Ironbark while staying connected to culture and community, strengthen partnerships with traditional owners, Aboriginal communities, government and industry, oversee the delivery of RAES, Workforce Australia and community programmes, provide leadership across social enterprises, maintain governance, financial sustainability and organisational performance, and build, support and grow a capable, values‑driven workforce. You will be based in Darwin, with regular travel to regional and remote communities.
About You
You are ideally an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander leader who brings wisdom, steadiness and respect. Your background might be in community services, government, employment programmes, health, social enterprise or corporate leadership – but what matters most is how you lead. You will thrive if you have led complex organisations or programmes, understand how to work respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal communities, can engage confidently with government, industry and funding partners, bring strong financial, governance and operational capability, value cultural safety, transparency and accountability, believe in the power of employment and prospect and want to contribute to something bigger than yourself. You will also embody Ironbark’s values: Commitment, Integrity, Collaboration, Courage and Respect.
Why This Role Matters
Ironbark plays a central role in shaping employment, economic participation and community development across the NT. As CEO you will influence how opportunities are created, how culture is championed and how future Aboriginal leaders are supported.
Living in the Northern Territory
Life in the Top End offers space, culture, connection and balance. Darwin is known for its warm climate, vibrant Aboriginal culture, bustling markets and easy access to national parks and remote communities. For the right person, this is more than a role; it’s a place to live with purpose.
Salary & Benefits
- $220,000 – $240,000 + superannuation
- Salary packaging
- Fully maintained vehicle
- Laptop, phone and technology support
- 5 weeks of annual leave
- Relocation support for the right candidate
- Anticipated commencement: April 2026, including a structured handover with the current CEO
How to Apply
Please apply directly online by submitting: A current resume and A cover letter addressing the key selection criteria and outlining your interest in the role.
For a confidential conversation, TEXT: Rebecca Perrone, Managing Director – Brooker Consulting on 0429 381 ***. A call will be scheduled after receiving your text.
The Position Description is available on the Brooker website. To request the full Candidate Information Pack, email Vasana - ******@lawsonhrgroup.com.au. She will forward the pack directly to you.
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