Lead, Programs and Operations (Identified)

Yiliyapinya Indigenous Corporation is an Indigenous-led, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to enhancing brain health and facilitating healing among children, young people, and the workforce.

We are seeking a First Nations senior, culturally grounded leader with team management and training facilitation expertise to lead program delivery, community engagement and operational coordination across the organisation.

This is a senior hands-on role, working closely with the CEO and a core part of the leadership team to deliver high-quality program delivery for our Yili Program, Workforce Brain Health initiative, and general operations.

The role will suit an experienced leader who is also confident in program leadership, team support, stakeholder engagement and working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, families and communities.

This is an Identified Position and, in accordance with Section 25 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991, it is a genuine occupational requirement that the position be filled by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person.

Position Purpose

The Lead, Programs and Operations provides high-level strategic, operational, and cultural leadership, and is a core role within the leadership team. This position ensures strong governance, operational excellence, staff wellbeing, and cultural integrity across all areas of work.

The position encompasses operational management of the Yili program and the broader organisation including direct line management of up to five people. Facilitation and delivery of the Workplace Brain health programs is a key area of responsibility as is community engagement and external representation of the organisation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Governance

Work closely with the Leadership team to develop, implement, and review the organisation’s strategic and operational plans.





Provide leadership to ensure programs and initiatives align with organisational goals, honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing, and respond to community needs

Represent the organisation in external forums, partnerships, and meetings as delegated by the CEO

Support the CEO and Board in governance and compliance matters, including preparing reports, strategic updates, and risk management advice.

Prepare high-quality reports and briefings for the Board, government agencies, and funders.

Partnerships and Community Engagement

Strengthen and maintain respectful, reciprocal relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Elders, and partner organisations.

Support the development of current partnerships and funding opportunities aligned with strategic priorities.

Represent the organisation at key community, government, and stakeholder events.

Yili Program Leadership and Coordination

Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing coordination of all program components, ensuring alignment with cultural values, organisational goals, and best practice.

Oversee day-to-day operations, staff supervision, resource planning, and stakeholder engagement to support high-quality service delivery.

Workplace Brain Health Program Facilitation

Network, establish and maintain positive working relationships with potential Brain Health program beneficiaries across Government, Corporate and Not for profit sectors

Deliver training online and in person.

Oversee data collection and feedback processes working closely with the Admin team





Manage research and writing surrounding developmental neuroscience and cultural wisdom

People and Culture

Support a culturally safe, inclusive, and high-performing workplace that reflects the organisation’s values and community connections.

Provide guidance and mentorship to senior staff, building leadership capacity across teams.

Support the implementation of workforce development strategies, including staff wellbeing, training, and professional growth.

Position Requirements

Skills Required:

Demonstrated significant experience in senior leadership within the not-for-profit, community organisations, or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations.

Strong understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, values, and community governance.

Proven ability to lead teams, manage complex projects, and deliver measurable outcome

Demonstrated ability to facilitate and deliver training

High-level communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholders.

Experience in organisational governance, financial management, and compliance frameworks.

Strategic thinking and operational acumen, with the ability to translate vision into practical outcomes.

Demonstrated ability to coach, mentor, and educate others

Qualifications & Experience:

Relevant tertiary qualifications in health, management, community development, or a related field.

Experience working with or reporting to Boards and funding bodies.

Minimum 3 years experience managing teams

Current Blue Card and National Police Clearance

Valid driver’s licence

Valid First Aid Certificate

Personal attributes

Culturally grounded and community-minded.

Collaborative, accountable, and values-driven leader.

Strategic thinker with strong attention to detail.

Empathetic communicator with excellent problem-solving skills.

Ability and willingness to travel as required

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📌 Lead, Programs and Operations (Identified) (Queensland)
🏢 Yiliyapinya Indigenous
📍 Queensland