About the role
We're seeking a dynamic and values‐driven Chief Operations Officer to lead the day‐to‐day operations of the organisation. This is an executive role, responsible for overseeing internal operations, organisational performance, and delivery of IDA's core activities in a financially responsible way.
Working closely with the CEO, Board, and Executive Team, the COO ensures that IDA operates efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with its strategic plan and values. The role provides strong operational leadership, builds a high‐performing, safe organisational culture, and ensures ranger and member priorities are embedded across all aspects of IDA's work.
The COO plays a key role in ensuring IDA is well‐governed, financially sustainable, and operationally strong to support Indigenous desert rangers, members, and partners.
Key Responsibilities
* Strategic and operational leadership
* Financial management, budgeting and reporting
* Lead a high performing, culturally safe workplace
* Drive organisational sustainability
* Develop and implement operational plans, aligned with strategic goals
* Ensure compliance, governance, and risk management standards are met
Qualifications
* Demonstrated senior leadership experience in operations, particularly within Indigenous‐led programmes or organisations
* A minimum of 5–7 years of senior leadership experience in operations
* Demonstrated financial management experience, overseeing budgets and reportingExperience managing major budgets exceeding $10 million
* Strong project management and delivery experience
* Proven experience building and managing high‐performing teams
* Experience working respectfully and in partnership with Indigenous people and communities
* High‐level written and oral communication skills, including demonstrated two‐way communication capability
* Strong decision‐making and problem‐solving skills
* Demonstrated conflict management capability
* Willingness and ability to travel to remote locations
* Relevant tertiary qualification in management or related discipline, or significant equivalent experience
* Preferably: experience working in remote or desert‐based contexts; knowledge of Indigenous land management; understanding of remote Indigenous social, cultural and economic contexts
What We Offer
* Opportunity to join a successful national for‐purpose organisation having a significant positive impact across the deserts of Australia
* Unique and rewarding opportunity to work with Aboriginal communities looking after their Country
* Competitive remuneration package and excellent conditions and salary packaging opportunities
* Dynamic culture of dedicated, passionate, and professional team members
* Additional paid leave during Christmas/New Year shut‐down period
* Comprehensive wellbeing support, through an active care approach for employees and their families
This position will close Sunday 31 May 2026.
The IDA reserves the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient suitable applications for the role.
The IDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds including Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander people, physical ability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression and family background.
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