- Shape strategy, advocacy and policy influence across the Territory

- Strengthen governance, financial sustainability and organisational capability

- Build trusted relationships with diverse metropolitan, regional and remote schools

The Position

Independent Schools Northern Territory (ISNT) is seeking an accomplished, values-driven leader to guide the organisation through its next phase of development. The appointment offers the opportunity to build on robust foundations, an established reputation and an ambitious Strategic Plan for 2026–2029.

Reporting to the Board, the Executive Director will provide strategic leadership to ISNT and the Independent school sector across the Northern Territory, translating the 2026–2029 Strategic Plan into transparent priorities, sustainable action and measurable outcomes for member schools. Working closely with the Chair, the Executive Director will provide high-quality advice to the Board and support effective governance, risk oversight and organisational accountability.

This broad executive appointment spans strategy, governance, policy, stakeholder engagement, finance, people and culture, risk, organisational performance and service delivery. A central priority will be strengthening ISNT’s advocacy and influence by anticipating policy developments, articulating clear sector positions and ensuring the distinctive circumstances of Northern Territory schools are understood in Territory and national decision-making.

The Executive Director will also lead the development of a sustainable financial model, strengthen organisational capability and oversee the effective delivery of government-funded programs and member services. They will maintain strong connections with school Boards, principals and senior leaders across Darwin, Alice Springs and regional and very remote communities, while building productive relationships with governments, regulators, Independent Schools Australia, other sector associations,



Aboriginal organisations and community partners.

The successful candidate will be a trusted adviser to the Chair and Board, a credible and persuasive advocate, and an empowering leader of a small, capable team. They will combine strategic vision with practical execution, strong financial and commercial judgement, cultural humility and a genuine commitment to educational choice. During the initial 12 to 18 months, the focus will be on listening and building trust, progressing the advocacy agenda, confirming strategic priorities and developing recommendations to strengthen ISNT’s long-term sustainability and value to members.

The Organisation

Independent Schools Northern Territory (ISNT), trading as the Association of Independent Schools of the Northern Territory (AISNT), is the peak body representing and supporting Independent Schools across the Northern Territory.

The role requires strategic vision, sound judgement, financial and commercial acumen, cultural capability and the ability to build trusted relationships across metropolitan, regional and very remote communities. Candidates may bring senior executive experience from education, government, a peak body, membership organisation or the not-for-profit sector.

ISNT is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity governed by a Board of Directors drawn from its membership. The organisation operates independently of government while maintaining constructive relationships with the Northern Territory and Australian Governments, education authorities, regulators and other sector partners.

ISNT’s purpose is to provide solid, expert leadership as the trusted and recognised voice for Independent schools in the Northern Territory, delivering high-quality support and advocacy to strengthen their capacity and impact.

To apply - click 'Quick apply', using reference SNTceo1026, addressing your cover letter and resume to Liam King and Kirsti Hitz-Morton, of Future Leadership™, or call 13•• ••• 437 for further information.

📌 Executive Director - Independent Schools Northern Territory (ISNT) (Darwin)
🏢 Future Leadership
📍 Darwin