Executive Director Growth & Sustainability

Lead the future of Gunaikurnai economic development.

GLaWAC is seeking a strategic and visionary Executive Director – Growth & Sustainability to drive sustainable economic growth, major partnerships and investment opportunities that deliver lasting benefits for the Gunaikurnai community. Leading significant projects across Gunaikurnai Country, including the Healing Warruk after Coal initiative, you'll help create employment, strengthen Aboriginal businesses and support long-term financial independence through self-determined outcomes.

This role offers versatile working arrangements, with the successful candidate able to be based in Kalimna, Morwell or work in a hybrid arrangement.

About GLaWAC:

Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation

(GLaWAC) represents the Traditional Owners of Gippsland, the Gunaikurnai people. The role of GLaWAC is to meet the aspirations of the Whole of Country Plan and to support members through Native Title related matters.

Come and join our fantastic team!

About the Position

The Executive Director – Growth & Sustainability is responsible for driving sustainable economic

growth, self-determined outcomes, and long-term financial independence for GLaWAC

through strategic partnerships, investment opportunities, and the growth of existing and

emerging enterprises.

The role provides strategic advice to the CEO on major projects, commercial partnerships,

investment opportunities and economic initiatives that strengthen GLaWACs long-term

financial stability and support community aspirations.

This position leads GLaWAC’s major developments across Gunaikurnai Country, identifying

opportunities to strengthen existing enterprises and negotiating strategic agreements that

deliver enduring economic, social, and cultural outcomes. A key focus is ensuring large-scale

projects, particularly those associated with the renewable energy transition and regional

infrastructure, generate tangible benefits through employment, procurement opportunities for

Aboriginal businesses,



workforce participation and strategic investment.

A significant responsibility is leading the implementation of Healing Warruk after Coal, ensuring

that coal mine remediation and the La Trobe Valley’s economic transition create lasting

opportunities for the Gunaikurnai community while supporting the restoration of culture and

Country.

Working Closely with government, Traditional Owners and regional stakeholders the Executive

Director secures agreements that ensure long term community benefits, including Aboriginal

businesses participation, local employment pathways, workforce development, strategic

investments and sustainable revenue streams.

In partnership with education and training providers, the role aligns workforce development

with current and emerging industry demand, supporting the community to access future

- Tertiary-level qualifications in business, project management, cultural heritage or related discipline.
- Senior leadership experience in economic development, major projects, commercial strategy, or partnerships.
- Experience with commercial contract negotiations or with complex agreements, particularly in the first nations sector.
- Strong commercial acumen, including contract management, business management, investment evaluation, and risk management.
- Proven ability to provide high-level strategic advice to executives and Boards.
- Experience working with or alongside First Nations communities, organisations, or stakeholders is highly regarded.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Strong strategic thinking, decision-making, and change leadership capability.
- A commitment to continuous improvement and delivering long-term, sustainable outcomes.
- Experience working with Aboriginal people, including a demonstrated ability to communicate and engage sensitively and effectively with Traditional Owner led communities and organisations.

Why should you join us?

Financial benefits of Salary Packaging

Excellent Cultural and Personal Development Opportunities

People of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage are encouraged to apply

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📌 Executive Director Growth & Sustainability (Wyuna)
🏢 GLaWAC
📍 Wyuna