As Australia's only national bird conservation charity, BirdLife Australia is on a mission to put birds and nature on the path to recovery within a decade, leading and facilitating action that halts biodiversity loss and restores ecosystems. BirdLife Australia takes a science and evidence-based approach to bird conservation. With a 100-plus year history and Australia's strongest and longest-lived collection of data and surveys, BirdLife Australia brings a wealth of observation and experience to the protection of native birds. BirdLife Australia is a diverse organisation with more than 330,000 supporters, donors, volunteers, campaigners, and members, over 130 staff across Australia, and a network of more than 40 voluntary community groups.

About the role

The Executive Director Participation & Engagement is a pivotal role responsible for delivering inspirational leadership to grow community participation and engagement in bird conservation impact including increased support through fundraising. This role will be the driving force behind BirdLife Australia's participation strategy with responsibility for identifying fundraising opportunities, crafting compelling and successful advocacy campaigns, managing donor communications and volunteer involvement, membership growth, and public awareness about bird conservation.

Key responsibilities

Lead, in partnership with the Strategy and Governance team, the development and execution of strategies to increase community participation and engagement in bird conservation.

Ensure alignment of engagement initiatives with BirdLife Australia's mission, vision, and values.

Facilitate strategic discussions with the Board, CEO, and Senior Leadership Team.





Engage BirdLife Australia branches to maximise alignment with delivery of the Bird Conservation Structure and grow the impact of branch activities.

Develop and implement programs to enhance volunteer recruitment, retention, and recognition.

Oversee bird conservation advocacy campaigns and government relations to maximise BirdLife Australia's influence and impact.

Develop and implement a comprehensive multifaceted fundraising strategy to support revenue targets associated with BirdLife's community programs and strategic projects.

Identify current fundraising opportunities and revenue streams, including individual giving, philanthropy, community fundraising and grants.

Lead initiatives to grow BirdLife Australia's membership base and develop membership engagement and retention strategies.

Provide leadership to the Participation and Engagement team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

About you

A degree in Communications, Community Development, Social Sciences or a related field, with significant experience in fundraising and engagement.

Proven leadership experience at a senior executive level.

Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing engagement strategies.

Strong understanding of community engagement best practices.

Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

Proven ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

High level of computer literacy.

Experience in the not-for-profit sector, preferably within conservation or environmental organisations (desirable).

Experience in volunteer management and public advocacy (desirable).

📌 Executive Director Participation (Melbourne)
🏢 BirdLife Australia
📍 Melbourne