Mercy Education Limited (MEL) is at an inflection point. Having navigated a period of stabilisation, the organisation is now positioned for growth, corporatisation and an exceptional CEO to define its future. This is a rare opportunity to lead a network of national significance, co‑create a strategic plan with the Board, and shape the future of MEL's 13 colleges service to students, families and communities for generations to come.
The incoming CEO will inherit strong school finances, a capable National Office team and a Board commitment to growth and transparent governance. They will have the scope and autonomy to set direction, build MEL's corporate value proposition, deepen the Mercy charism across a contemporary and diverse school network, and drive growth through new school partnerships and service expansion.
This is leadership with genuine moral purpose — for a leader who believes that values‑based Catholic education can and should change lives.
The Role
Reporting to the Board through the Board Chair, the CEO provides strategic leadership and operational stewardship across MEL's 13‑college network. Key accountabilities include:
* Strategy & Growth — Co‑develop the strategic plan with the Board; build MEL's corporate value proposition; drive new school partnerships, affiliate relationships and revenue diversification
* Leadership — Deliver value‑adding services to member schools; champion educational excellence, child safety and school improvement across the network
* People & Culture — Appoint and develop College Principals and National Office staff; set the tone from the top; build a high‑performing, mission‑aligned National Office team
* Stakeholder Engagement — Maintain transparent Board relations; build trusted networks across Catholic and State education authorities, diocesan leaders and government agencies in VIC, WA and SA
* Governance & Compliance — Ensure robust financial controls, accurate reporting and full regulatory compliance across three states
What We're Looking For
* Proven senior leadership in the education sector — secondary education system experience strongly preferred (school system, regional or national office level)
* Exceptional relational and stakeholder skills — the capacity to build trust with school principals and lead across complex, multi‑jurisdictional environments
* Commercial acumen and financial literacy; strong organisational leadership including HR, legal and change management
* Deep understanding of regulatory and compliance obligations across multiple states
* Child safeguarding experience and commitment to best practice
* Be able to demonstrate a commitment to the mission, vision and values of MEL and the ministerial works of Mercy Ministry Companions
* Working with Children Checks (multi‑state), National Police Records Check and Applicant Declaration required.
Highly valued:
* Being a practising Catholic is highly regarded
* Catholic education sector experience; adjacent sectors (Catholic health, tertiary education) considered
* Servant leadership philosophy — builds trust through humility, consistency and empowerment
* Track record of developing strong leaders and effective succession planning
* Growth mindset and experience executing new service or school development opportunities
* Tertiary qualifications in education, leadership and/or business (postgraduate preferred)
Why This Role?
There are very few executive opportunities in Australian education that combine this level of strategic scope, mission significance and genuine complexity. Here is why exceptional leaders choose this role:
* Mission That Matters — Lead an organisation rooted in the Gospel values of Catherine McAuley, educating young people with compassion, justice and a commitment to those at the margins
* Real Transformation to Lead — MEL is moving from stabilisation to growth; the incoming CEO will shape its direction and leave a lasting legacy across 13 schools and 14,000 students
* Strategic Scope & Autonomy — Co‑create a new strategic plan, define MEL's value proposition, build shared services and drive growth through new partnerships
* Meaningful Stakeholder Network — Operate at the intersection of faith, education and public policy, engaging principals, bishops, government authorities and communities across three states
* A Strong Foundation — Strong school finances, long‑established institutions, a capable team and a Board committed to transparent governance
* Catholic Identity in a Modern World — Champion the Mercy charism for a contemporary, diverse student body, articulating why values‑based education matters
How to Apply
This search is being conducted exclusively by Six Degrees Executive on behalf of Mercy Education Limited.
To apply or have a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Nick Hindhaugh at Six Degrees:
Email: Nick@sixdegreesexecutive.com.au
Mercy Education Limited is an equal opportunity employer committed to child safety and the protection of all members of our school communities. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre‑employment screening including Working with Children Checks (multi‑state), National Police Records Check and completion of an Applicant Declaration Document.
The existence of the Mercy Education Limited gives strength, support and solidarity to each of the member Mercy schools - staff, students, College Councils and parents – as the work of Mercy Education continues into the future.
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