About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses' as the Chief Mental Health Nurse and Executive Officer. In this role, the individual will provide national leadership for the mental health nursing profession and will be responsible for both strategic and operational management of the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses.
Eligibility
Preferred candidates will:
* be a Registered Nurse (APHRA)
* be credentialed mental health nurses or eligible for credentialing
* hold postgraduate qualifications relevant to the role
* demonstrate leadership in mental health nursing practice, education, research and/or policy
* be experienced in executive senior management
* be experienced in advocacy and mental health service provision
Selection Criteria
* Lead and influence the mental health nursing profession.
* Manage budget, workforce and operational outcomes.
* Develop and implement strategic initiatives.
* Build partnerships with government and professional organisations.
* Mentor emerging leaders within the profession.
* Support organisational governance and accountability.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership and Vision
* Lead the implementation of the organisation's strategic plan.
* Ensure alignment with mental health nursing values, national priorities, and commitments to First Nations mental health and social and emotional wellbeing.
* Drive innovation in mental health nursing practice, workforce development, and capability uplift.
2. Governance, Compliance and Risk Management
* Support the Board through high‑quality reporting, strategic advice, and operational transparency.
* Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulatory obligations, and accreditation requirements.
* Oversee organisational risk frameworks, quality assurance systems, and ethical standards.
3. Operational and Financial Management
* Oversee day‑to‑day operations, ensuring efficient, high‑quality service delivery.
* Develop and manage annual budgets, financial controls, and reporting.
* Ensure sustainable business models, including membership revenue, partnerships, programs, and grants.
4. Workforce and Organisational Culture
* Build and lead a high‑performing staff team with a culture of safety, accountability, and professional excellence.
* Champion culturally safe responsible practices, particularly in relation to First Nations colleagues and communities, and CALD communities.
* Oversee policies that support staff wellbeing, ongoing professional development, and performance.
5. Advocacy, Policy Influence and Government Engagement
* Represent the profession in national policy discussions, reforms, and sector working groups.
* Develop and maintain relationships with government agencies, health departments, and peak bodies.
* Provide authoritative leadership on mental health nursing issues, workforce needs, and models of care.
6. Professional Standards and Sector Development
* Lead initiatives that advance mental health nursing practice, education, and leadership capabilities.
* Oversee implementation of competency and capability frameworks, professional standards, and related tools.
* Collaboratively support national professional initiatives including: credentialing; accreditation of postgraduate education; professional standards and capabilities frameworks; and specific project/s periodically.
7. First Nations Partnerships and SEWB Leadership
* Strengthen relationships with First Nations peak bodies (e.g. CATSINaM) and community organisations.
* Champion commitments to Apology, Truth, and Action, embedding them in all strategic activities.
8. Stakeholder Engagement and Membership Value
* Build strong relationships with members, educators, researchers, and service leaders.
* Ensure high-value member services, communications, events, and professional development offerings.
* Represent the organisation at conferences, forums, and national sector events.
* Strong relationship with Government organisations.
9. Communications, Partnerships and External Relations
* Serve as the public face of the organisation, maintaining a strong advocacy and media presence.
* Build partnerships across mental health, nursing, academic, and community sectors.
* Promote the profile and influence of mental health nursing nationally and internationally.
10. Monitoring Performance and Reporting
* Oversee KPIs, strategic outcomes, and evaluation frameworks.
* Monitor sector trends to proactively advise on future workforce and service needs.
Why Join ACMHN
This role offers a unique opportunity to provide national professional and organisational leadership for mental health nursing as Australia's peak professional body. The Chief Mental Health Nurse and Executive Officer leads the strategic direction, governance, and operational performance of ACMHN, while influencing professional standards, workforce development, and policy at a national level.
The role provides the opportunity to work collaboratively with the Board of Directors, members, governments, and key stakeholders to strengthen the voice, impact, and sustainability of mental health nursing across all sectors. It is suited to a senior leader seeking to shape the future of the profession while leading a respected member‑based organisation through strategic growth and reform.
How to Apply
Applications will close on COB Friday 8 May 2026.
Applicants must address the selection criteria and submit their application to the President, Professor Rhonda Wilson, at *************@acmhn.org by the close date.
Please note: Applications will only be accepted via email and not through Seek.
Enquiries regarding the position, or requests for a copy of the Position Description and the ACMHN Strategic Plan 2026–2030, may be directed to Professor Rhonda Wilson at *************@acmhn.org.
If you're passionate about mental health nursing and ready to take on a rewarding leadership role, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now to be part of our team.