Executive Manager Governance and Operations (full-time)

$160 000 per annum depending on experience.

Based in Northam (minimum three days per week in the office)

About Ballardong Aboriginal Corporation

Ballardong Aboriginal Corporation (BAC) is the recognised Ballardong Noongar Regional Corporation established under the South-West Native Title Settlement.

BAC works to protect and promote Ballardong culture, heritage and Country while creating opportunities and positive outcomes for Ballardong Noongar people. As the Corporation continues to grow, we are focused on strengthening governance, building community connections, and creating a strong foundation for future generations. We are committed to providing a culturally safe, inclusive, and supportive workplace and strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply.

The Opportunity

Ballardong Aboriginal Corporation is seeking a highly capable and values-driven Executive Manager Governance & Operations to join our Executive Leadership Team.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, this strategically important role provides leadership across governance, compliance, risk, corporate services and organisational operations. Working closely with the CEO and Board of Directors, you will help ensure the Corporation operates effectively, transparently and in accordance with its legal, cultural, governance and funding obligations, while supporting the ongoing growth and sustainability of the organisation

About the Role

The Executive Manager Governance & Operations is responsible for leading the Corporation's governance and operational functions, ensuring effective systems, policies and processes are in place to support organisational performance and accountability.

The role oversees governance and compliance activities, risk management, corporate services, operational planning, organisational reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives.



You will also work closely with the Board, members, government agencies, funding bodies, and key stakeholders to support the achievement of BAC's strategic objectives and aspirations.

About You

You are an experienced leader with a strong track record in governance, compliance, operations, or corporate services. A strategic thinker, you can confidently balance organisational priorities with day-to-day operational demands in a dynamic environment.

You have excellent relationship-building and communication skills, enabling you to work effectively with community members, Boards, government agencies, funding bodies, and a diverse range of stakeholders. You are organised, solutions-focused and capable of managing competing priorities while maintaining high standards of governance, accountability and service delivery.

Essential Requirements

To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate:

- Demonstrated senior leadership experience in governance, compliance, operations or corporate services.

- Strong knowledge of Aboriginal Corporation governance, including CATSI Act and ORIC requirements.

- Experience developing and implementing governance, risk and compliance frameworks.

- Demonstrated experience overseeing operational systems and organisational processes.

- Strong financial management, grant compliance and reporting experience.

- Experience leading and/or supporting organisational improvement and change initiatives.

- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.





- Ability to provide strategic advice and exercise sound judgement in complex environments.

- Demonstrated experience leading and developing teams.

- Current WA Australian Driver's Licence.

- Ability to obtain a National Police Clearance.

- Ability to work from the Northam office and travel throughout the Ballardong region as required.

Highly Regarded

- Experience working within an Aboriginal organisation, Native Title body or community-controlled organisation.

- Knowledge of Aboriginal community governance and engagement.

- Understanding of Noongar culture and the South-West Native Title Settlement.

- Relevant tertiary qualifications in Governance, Business, Law, Public Administration, or a related discipline.

What We Offer

- Competitive remuneration package including superannuation, vehicle, and salary packaging

- Senior leadership opportunity with strategic impact.

- Flexible working arrangements.

- 5 weeks leave and 17.5% leave loading.

- Additional paid leave between Christmas Eve and Recent Year’s Day.

- Opportunity to contribute to meaningful social, cultural, and economic outcomes for Ballardong people.

- The chance to help shape a growing Aboriginal Corporation during an important period of development.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and addressing each of the selection criteria to ••••@dabs.net.au. A Duty Statement is available on request.

Applications close: 5:00 pm Wednesday 4 November 2026

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are particularly encouraged to apply. We are seeking to increase the diversity of our workforce to better meet the needs of our members and community and improve equal opportunity outcomes for our employees. This is authorised under Section 51 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984

📌 Executive Manager Governance and Operations (Northam)
🏢 Ballardong Aboriginal
📍 Northam