Job description ABOUT MERIDIAN
For over 40 years, Meridian has been serving people living with and impacted by HIV, sex workers and LGBTQ+ Canberrans. We are a community-controlled, peer-led organisation that providing health, community and social support services. Our vision is a future where our communities thrive: healthy and well, free from stigma, empowered by peer connection and supported by a just and inclusive society.
THE OPPORTUNITY
We are seeking a values‐driven Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) to play a pivotal leadership role in delivering our Strategy 2025–2030 and driving organisational performance. This is a rare opportunity to join a respected, community‐led organisation at an exciting time of strategic growth, innovation and influence. As DCEO, you will provide strong operational, strategic and people leadership, strengthen our policy and research agenda, and ensure high‐quality governance, compliance and service delivery. You will act for the CEO as required and represent Meridian across key partnerships, government engagements and sector initiatives.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
* Translate strategic objectives into operational plans and monitor performance.
* Lead organisational performance, quality improvement, accreditation and compliance.
* Drive Meridian's policy and research agenda, ensuring strong community voice and evidence‐informed advocacy.
* Provide effective financial oversight, resource management and support sustainability.
* Lead and support staff, fostering an inclusive, adaptive and culturally safe workplace.
* Strengthen engagement with government, funders, partners and community stakeholders.
ABOUT YOU
You are an experienced leader with a strong background in strategy, operations, policy or community/health services, and you thrive in dynamic environments. You understand how to lead through influence, collaboration and accountability, and you are deeply committed to the communities Meridian serves. You will bring:
* Leadership experience across strategy, policy, risk and stakeholder relations.
* Strong understanding of HIV, BBV and STI policy, and the lived experiences of priority populations.
* Experience managing diverse teams and driving organisational performance.
* High‐level communication, negotiation and relationship‐building skills.
* Relevant tertiary qualifications (postgraduate or governance credentials desirable) and/or extensive relevant experience.
Essential requirements: Right to work in Australia, unrestricted Drivers Licence, ACT WWVP registration, national police check, and willingness to work outside standard hours and undertake travel interstate, as required.
WHY JOIN THE MERIDIAN TEAM?
* Work with a respected, mission‐driven organisation grounded in community and lived experience.
* Influence policy, systems and service design that directly impacts LGBTQ+ communities, people living with or at risk of HIV and sex workers.
* Lead meaningful work in a supportive, passionate and values‐aligned team.
* Enjoy flexible work arrangements and a workplace culture that prioritises wellbeing, inclusion and growth.
ADJUSTMENTS AND SUPPORT FOR APPLICANTS
Meridian is committed to ensuring a fair, accessible, and inclusive recruitment process. Applicants requiring adjustments are encouraged to contact Joshua Anlezark to discuss needs confidentially. Requesting an adjustment will not adversely impact your application in any way.
For a confidential discussion or to request recruitment adjustments, please contact: Joshua Anlezark, Chief Executive Officer|0401 751 425 | using the subject line: Deputy Chief Executive Officer enquiry via EthicalJobs.
A position description is attached.