About the Position

We are seeking an exceptional Deputy Chief - Service Operations to provide strategic and operational leadership across a diverse portfolio of services that support children, young people, families and communities. Reporting directly to the Chief Service Operations Officer, this executive leadership role is responsible for leading senior leaders to deliver safe, high-quality, culturally responsive and financially sustainable services while driving organisational performance, growth, governance and continuous improvement. The role offers a unique opportunity to influence outcomes at scale and contribute to the ongoing achievement of Act for Kids' strategic priorities.

- Negotiated salary.
- Hybrid working options to support work-life balance.
- Full-time permanent opportunity.

Key Responsibilities:

- Provide executive leadership across a significant service portfolio, ensuring excellence in service delivery, governance, safeguarding, quality and organisational performance.
- Lead and develop senior leaders by providing strategic direction, performance oversight, coaching and support to Directors and portfolio leaders.
- Drive organisational strategy and growth by translating strategic priorities into operational outcomes, managing risk and leading service improvement initiatives.
- Strengthen sustainable impact through oversight of service quality, financial performance, stakeholder partnerships and contractual compliance across multiple service streams.

Please read the full position description for more information.

About You

- Tertiary qualification in social work, psychology, human services,



health, education, management or another relevant discipline.
- Postgraduate qualifications in leadership, management, governance, business or a related field are highly desirable.
- Extensive senior leadership experience in complex human services, child and family services, health, disability, education, community services or related sectors.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively lead Directors, senior managers and geographically dispersed teams across multiple programs, funding streams and jurisdictions.
- Eligibility to work in Australia (proof of eligibility required), including holding or obtaining required checks (Working with Children Check or skilled exemption).
- Current driver’s licence.

About Act for Kids

Act for Kids is a for-purpose organisation that delivers evidence-based support services to children and families who have experienced or are at risk of harm. Our teams are at the heart of everything we do, and we are united by a single purpose to help keep kids safe, heal from trauma and lead happy lives and thrive.

You will have access to:

- Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free + an additional $2,650 for meals/entertainment.
- Extra leave, including wellbeing days, study, exam,



and pet leave.
- Fitness Passport including discounted fitness memberships to a range of facilities for you and your family.
- Access to our Employee Assistance Program including 24/7 counselling and wellbeing portals.
- Ongoing professional development through our annual PD fund and structured support.
- Flexible work arrangements and a team that truly values what you bring.

Make a difference every day in a values-led organisation. We’re more than just a workplace—we’re a community built on shared values: Professional, Ethical, Team, Caring, Courageous, and Collaborative. We’re proud to be recognised for our commitment to inclusion as Inclusive Employer 2023–24 and 2025–26 by the Diversity Council Australia.

How to Apply

Click on ‘Apply Now’ to submit your application. Applications will be reviewed as received, therefore, please apply as soon as possible before the closing date.

Please include:

- Resume
- Cover letter addressing the key responsibilities of the role.

If you require any adjustments or support to participate in the recruitment process equitably, we encourage you to reach out to the contact person below. Your information will be treated confidentially.

We encourage and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people of all backgrounds and identities.

Contact

For more information, please contact Kaye Pickering (Chief Service Operations Officer): 0419 794 *** or **************@actforkids.com.au.

Closing Date: 23 October 2026

📌 Deputy Chief - Service Operations (Milton)
🏢 Act for Kids
📍 Milton