Lead one of Australia’s most trusted community organisations into its next phase of growth, influence and impact across New South Wales.
* Lead strategy, sustainability & growth across a complex purpose-led organisation
* Inspire volunteers, staff & stakeholders through authentic and visible leadership
* Strengthen government partnerships, advocacy & long-term community impact
The organisation
St John Ambulance NSW is one of Australia’s most recognised and respected community organisations, delivering first aid, community health and volunteer services across metropolitan, regional and remote communities throughout New South Wales. With a proud history in Australia spanning more than 140 years — and part of the global Order of St John with origins dating back more than 900 years — the organisation has long been dedicated to providing care, support and service to people in times of need.
Built on foundations of humanitarianism, community support and service, St John NSW today combines deep community impact with the discipline and capability of a commercially operated social enterprise. Through first aid training, community health services, volunteer programs and support of emergency response, the organisation plays an important role in building safer, healthier and more resilient communities across the state in its role as the Medical Reserve.
Today, St John NSW engages more than 2,500 volunteers, supported by 300 staff who contribute across a diverse range of services and programs. Its cadet and youth programs currently number 1,400 members and continue to grow strongly, reflecting the organisation’s enduring relevance and impact for future generations.
Deeply values‑led, St John NSW is guided by principles of respect, integrity, collaboration, communication and leadership in all that it does. The organisation is entering an important new phase focused on strengthening community engagement, deepening partnerships with government and emergency services and expanding the ability of its commercial endeavours to support its charitable purpose.
The role
This is a significant leadership opportunity to guide St John Ambulance NSW through its next phase of community impact, strategic growth and sustainability.
Reporting to the Board, the Chief Executive Officer will lead the organisation with authenticity, visibility and strategic clarity, building on a strong legacy while positioning St John NSW for the future. The CEO will lead a geographically dispersed workforce and volunteer community, fostering a high‑performing, inclusive and values‑led culture across the organisation.
A key priority will be strengthening the organisation’s partnership with government to support the delivery of vital community services, while balancing the needs of community, volunteers and the long‑term growth of the organisation. The CEO will act as a visible ambassador for St John NSW, championing its purpose, strengthening brand presence and deepening community trust.
The role requires an experienced executive leader with strong commercial and strategic capability, alongside the emotional intelligence and diplomacy to engage effectively across a complex stakeholder environment. Leadership experience drawn from emergency services or response will be highly regarded, particularly within community, health, government‑related, membership or volunteer‑led environments.
A genuine commitment to values‑based, community service is essential, including the ability to connect authentically with volunteers, staff and the diverse communities served by St John NSW.
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