Location:
Sydney
Employment type:
Full time
ROLE
The Impact Programs & Engagement Manager is responsible for the design, delivery and continuous improvement of AFC's impact programs, delivering practical outcomes for members across manufacturing, skills, sustainability and commerce & trade.
This role translates AFC's advocacy and impact priorities into well-structured programs, including industry forums, consultations, research initiatives and education programs. The role ensures programs are delivered to a high standard, on time and within budget, and generate insights to inform policy, funding and government engagement.
Working closely with industry, government and partners, the role maintains a real-time view of the fashion and textile sector, delivering programs that help businesses innovate, scale and compete globally, while supporting the transition to more environmentally and socially responsible practices. This role suits an experienced program operator who is comfortable managing multiple workstreams, engaging industry stakeholders and delivering measurable member value in a not-for-profit, impact-driven environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Program Delivery
* Plan and deliver AFC's portfolio of industry and impact programs across manufacturing, skills, sustainability and trade
* Develop and manage detailed project plans, including project scopes, timelines, budgets, roles & responsibilities, presentations and reports and monitor these on an ongoing basis to ensure delivery of key projects outlined in the AFC strategy
* Align program delivery to AFC's membership and growth priorities, supporting member retention and acquisition
* Track and report on program performance and funding outcomes, contributing inputs to Board, member, government and partner reporting.
* Support the securing of program funding aligned to AFC strategic priorities through grant applications and commercial partnerships
Industry Engagement and Representation
* Build and maintain strong relationships with members and industry stakeholders to support effective program delivery
* Design and facilitate working groups, consultations and forums to drive industry participation and endorsement of AFC programs
* Capture and synthesise industry insights to inform AFC policy positions, advocacy and program design
* Lead formal submissions to government and relevant industry bodies, representing member perspectives across manufacturing, skills, commerce, trade & exports and sustainability
* Attend conferences, meetings and industry events to remain up to date with news and trends, representing AFC where required
Member Engagement
* Support the Membership team by aligning program delivery to member retention and acquisition objectives
* Coordinate with the Marketing team to support promotion, reporting and visibility of programs
* Manage the Member Experience & Operations Coordinator to evolve membership data and strategy, conceptualise and deliver member acquisition, retention and engagement activity
Skills and Experience
Essential
* At least 5 years experience delivering programs or projects in an industry, membership, not-for-profit or policy-adjacent environment
* Strong program and project management capability
* Experience facilitating workshops, working groups or structured engagement
* Experience contributing to grant-funded or partnership-supported programs
* Ability to manage multiple workstreams with competing deadlines
* Excellent communication and stakeholder skills
* Experience managing or supervising delivery teams or operational support roles across multiple projects
* A Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Desirable
* Experience working with or alongside government, policy or advocacy organisations
* Familiarity with fashion, textiles, manufacturing or creative industries
* Experience applying for, securing, delivering and reporting on partnership and grant commitments
* Experience in a not-for-profit context
Personal Attributes
* Delivery-oriented and detail-focused
* Confident facilitator with strong stakeholder skills
* Comfortable operating in a small, fast-moving team
* Collaborative, pragmatic and adaptable
* Motivated by purpose and industry impact
ABOUT AUSTRALIAN FASHION COUNCIL
The AFC is the not-for-profit peak industry body for the Australian fashion & textile industry with members drawn from across the entire fashion and textile ecosystem. Our unique position is in connecting critical stakeholders across an industry that generates $27.2 billion, to effectively champion an innovative, resilient and sustainable legacy. Through collaboration and leadership, we deliver resources, tools and programs that enable our industry to evolve and thrive.
At the AFC, we champion courageous leadership and purposeful growth. We believe in celebrating creativity and connecting community. We value collaboration, integrity and human-centricity with a maverick spirit. The AFC encourages a culture of open communication which empowers, nurtures and rewards its employees with a positive environment, understanding and flexibility. The AFC offers flexible working arrangements and is based at the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo, Sydney.
To apply
Email your cover letter outlining why you are the right fit for this role and your CV through to by 24th February, 2026. Applications received through Linkedin will not be accepted.