- Lead a respected youth homelessness prevention organisation
- Help shape its strategic future
- Support 1000 at risk youth every night

For more than 35 years, Kids Under Cover has helped prevent youth homelessness through innovative early intervention programs that provide safe accommodation, education support and pathways to brighter futures. As the organisation prepares for its next chapter, following the leadership of outgoing CEO Stephen Nash, the Board is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to build on strong foundations and guide Kids Under Cover through its next phase of growth, sustainability and influence.

This is an opportunity to lead an organisation with a clear purpose, an outstanding reputation and an unwavering commitment to improving outcomes for vulnerable young people across Australia.

About Kids Under Cover

Kids Under Cover is a leading not-for-profit organisation focused on preventing youth homelessness before it occurs. The organisation delivers cutting-edge accommodation solutions, including relocatable studios, village-based accommodation and mobile housing initiatives, alongside education-based support programs.

With annual revenue of approximately $15 million, a dedicated team of professionals and a significant asset portfolio spanning multiple jurisdictions, Kids Under Cover is well positioned to expand its impact, strengthen its influence and drive innovative solutions to youth homelessness prevention.

About the Role

As CEO, you will work closely with the Board to shape and deliver the organisation's strategic vision, ensuring sustainable growth,



strong governance and meaningful social impact.

You will serve as the public face of the organisation and build influential relationships across government, philanthropy, corporate Australia and the community. A key focus of the role will be securing funding, expanding partnerships and increasing awareness of youth homelessness prevention initiatives.

Leading a high-performing Senior Management Team, you will oversee strategy, fundraising, finance, programs, people, operations and advocacy while fostering a values-driven culture focused on impact, accountability and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

- Deliver the organisation's strategic vision and drive sustainable growth and impact.
- Partner with the Board on strategy, governance and organisational performance.
- Secure and diversify funding through government, philanthropy and corporate partnerships.
- Build influential relationships and represent Kids Under Cover with key external stakeholders.
- Champion the organisation's profile, advocacy and leadership within the sector.
- Lead and develop a high-performing executive team and values-led culture.

About You You are an accomplished executive leader with experience leading complex organisations through growth and change.



You bring strong commercial and financial acumen, outstanding stakeholder engagement skills, demonstrated success securing funding and partnerships, and a proven ability to work effectively with Boards, governments and diverse stakeholders.

Experience in human services, housing, homelessness, education, philanthropy, government or similarly purpose-driven environments will be highly regarded.

Equally important is your leadership style. You are collaborative, authentic and values-driven, with the ability to empower others, build capability and foster a positive, high-performing culture. This is an opportunity to lead a highly respected organisation with a committed Board, dedicated team and a mission that changes lives every day.

Why Join Kids Under Cover?

Kids Under Cover is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and culturally safe workplace. Applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences are encouraged.

Successful applicants will be required to complete relevant pre-employment checks, including a Police Check and Working with Children Check.

Join Kids Under Cover and help create brighter futures for young people by preventing youth homelessness before it begins.

For a confidential discussion, please call Lesley Lightfoot on 0458 543 485 or Alison Myatt, Head of Research on 0412 630 817.

Please send an application quoting Ref No A006525 to Watermark Search International at [email protected]. We will reply to the email address used for your application.

Closing date: 11.59 AEST Monday, 28th September 2026

📌 Chief Executive Officer (Melbourne)
🏢 Watermark Search International
📍 Melbourne