Kabi Kabi Peoples Aboriginal Corporation (KKPAC) represents the Kabi Kabi peoples, the Traditional Owners of lands and waters extending from the North Pine River near Brisbane to the Burrum River near Maryborough, including the Sunshine Coast, Gympie and the Conondale Ranges.
We are delivering a significant, multi-year expansion of our Indigenous Ranger Program and are seeking an experienced Program Manager – Ranger Expansion to lead this next phase of growth across Kabi Kabi Country.
About the role
This is a senior, hands-on leadership role responsible for establishing new ranger bases, growing and developing ranger teams, and lifting the standard, consistency and capability of ranger operations across multiple sites.
Reporting to the Lead Ranger – Knowledge & Practice, you will work closely with Rangers, Elders, Executive, community members and funding partners to deliver strong cultural, environmental and employment outcomes — safely, sustainably and in line with funding and governance requirements.
Key responsibilities
Program leadership & expansion
* Lead delivery of a three-year Indigenous Ranger Program expansion across multiple sites
* Establish and operationalise new ranger bases, including facilities, assets, systems and workforce
* Translate annual project plans and budgets into practical, sequenced delivery
* Report progress, risks and outcomes to Executive and funding bodies
People & workforce leadership
* Recruit, lead and develop a growing ranger workforce
* Build a high-performing, culturally safe team with clear expectations and development pathways
* Oversee performance, mentoring, wellbeing and career progression
* Foster a strong team culture grounded in respect, accountability and care for Country
Operational & financial management
* Oversee day-to-day operations across ranger bases, ensuring safe, efficient delivery
* Manage budgets, assets, vehicles, equipment and infrastructure in line with funding conditions
* Lead grant reporting, acquittals and audits in collaboration with finance and executive teams
* Ensure WHS, legislative, governance and compliance obligations are met
Governance, systems & sustainability
* Work within cultural governance frameworks and engage respectfully with Elders and Cultural Advisors
* Design and embed systems, processes and reporting to support program delivery at scale
* Use data to demonstrate impact and drive continuous improvement
* Build leadership capability, succession pathways and long-term program sustainability
About you
* Proven experience leading ranger operations or complex, multi-site programs
* Strong people leadership skills, ideally working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
* Experience managing government-funded programs, budgets and reporting
* Sound knowledge of WHS, risk management and compliance
* The ability to build systems and structure in a growing organisation
* Excellent communication skills and confidence engaging with Executive, Boards and stakeholders
Highly desirable:
* Experience delivering Indigenous Ranger Programs or land and sea management initiatives
* Understanding of culturally led governance and working with Traditional Owners