The organisation
The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle serves the people of the Newcastle, Hunter and Manning regions, encompassing a Catholic population of over 160,000. Through its diverse agencies, including CatholicCare Social Services, Catholic Schools and St Nicholas Early Education, the Diocese delivers mission-aligned services that respond to the spiritual, educational and social needs of our communities.
CatholicCare Social Services is a not-for-profit agency of the Diocese and a vital expression of our outreach and commitment to social justice. They offer a wide range of programs including child and family services, youth and community programs, mental health support, refugee services and Permanency Support Programs. Their services are guided by the Catholic ethos and grounded in the values of respect, justice, connection, collaboration and innovation.
They are committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable people and have zero tolerance for abuse or neglect. All staff must adhere to their Safeguarding Framework and Code of Conduct.
The opportunity
This is a rare and rewarding opportunity to lead one of the Diocese's most impactful agencies. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and Bishop's leadership group, the Director, CatholicCare Social Services will lead a large multidisciplinary workforce delivering high-quality social and community programs across the Hunter-Manning region.
The role will be the Principal Officer for CatholicCare Social Services in accordance with relevant Child Protection Legislation.
This position is responsible for the management, development, and implementation of programs that serve the physical and emotional needs of individuals and families in the community. The Director will collaborate with other community organisations, parishes, and agencies to ensure that services are comprehensive, compassionate, and consistent with Catholic social teaching.
As a member of the Diocesan Leadership Group the role has mission accountability to the Bishop and Trustees. The role has a reporting requirement, in relation to mission in the context of CatholicCare, to a relevant Board or Council.
About you
We are seeking a values-driven and visionary leader with a demonstrated record of executive leadership, ideally within the social services, child and family, or allied health sectors. The successful candidate will hold a personal faith and demonstrate a clear willingness to support and promote the mission and values of the Catholic Church.
You will bring:
* Significant experience managing complex human services portfolios, with a strong understanding of child, youth and family service systems, funding environments and accreditation standards.
* A high level of commercial acumen, including experience in financial strategy and driving service growth, as well as a proven capacity to build high-performing teams, shape organisational culture and deliver measurable outcomes.
* Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills are essential, alongside a collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
* Tertiary qualifications in psychology, social welfare, human services or a related discipline (postgraduate qualifications in management considered desirable)
You must also be eligible to be appointed as a Principal Officer under relevant child protection legislation, and hold a current NSW Working with Children Check, NDIS Worker Check and National Police Check.
What's on Offer
* The opportunity to lead a mission-driven organisation with deep community impact
* A supportive executive leadership team and committed Board
* Competitive remuneration aligned to experience and qualifications
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
* Commitment to professional development and well-being
* A collaborative and values-led workplace culture
How to Apply
For a confidential discussion or role related questions, please contact Sarah Curran of The Orchard Talent Group on To apply please submit your current CV via the link. Please note applicants must have a legal right to work in Australia.
Applications close 31st August 2025.
The Orchard Talent Group acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging, for they hold the memories, traditions, culture and hopes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.