Believe in their potential. Lead the way forward.
We’re looking for a dynamic, passionate, and strategic leader to head the Transitions and Pathways team within the NRL Cowboys House program, delivered by the Cowboys Community Foundation .
This is a pivotal role, ensuring every student has a supported and realistic pathway beyond school — into further education, training, or employment — and ongoing support for up to two years after graduation.
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About Us
The Cowboys Community Foundation is a registered charity committed to improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from remote communities. Our focus is on education, transition support, and increasing access to opportunity through targeted, long-term programs that address barriers to participation.
Our flagship program, NRL Cowboys House, provides supported accommodation for Indigenous students from remote areas so they can attend secondary school in Townsville. The Foundation also delivers wraparound transition and employment pathway programs, supporting students during and after school to achieve long-term independence and success.
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About the Role
As the Transitions and Pathways Manager, you will lead a high-performing team responsible for future planning, career development, and post-school support for NRL Cowboys House students and graduates. Reporting to the General Manager – Cowboys House, this role is part of the House leadership team and is accountable for driving meaningful transition to employment or further education outcomes.
Your key responsibilities will include:
* Leading and managing the Transitions and Pathways team, including Career Transition support and the Year 13 Transition Officer
* Overseeing individual transition plans for every student
* Managing the Year 13 Graduate Campus program
* Building and maintaining partnerships with employers, training organisations, and tertiary institutions
* Embedding future-focused planning across all stages of the Cowboys House experience
* Driving data-informed reporting, continuous improvement, and long-term success
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About You
You are an energetic leader, great communicator, and strategic thinker with a strong belief in the power of opportunity. You understand the complexity of youth transitions, and you bring cultural humility and care in how you lead and connect with others.
You’ll bring:
* Tertiary qualifications in education, youth work, social work or a related field, or 5+ years’ relevant experience
* Demonstrated leadership experience in youth transitions, education, or career development
* A proven ability to build and lead effective teams
* Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, families, and communities
* Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, administrative and reporting skills
You’ll also hold:
* A current Queensland Working with Children Check (Blue Card)
* A current C-class driver’s licence
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Why Join Us?
* Lead a purpose-driven team in a nationally recognised program
* Contribute to long-term, life-changing outcomes for Indigenous students and their communities
* Be part of the Cowboys Community Foundation – a high-impact charity with real results
* Enjoy generous salary sacrifice options to boost your take-home pay
* Join a passionate, values-led team making a real difference