Position: Centre Director

Employment status: Permanent full-time

38 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

Occasional after-hours and on-call work will be required to support the ongoing operations of the Centre.

Onsite at Balwyn Community Centre.

Salary: Neighbourhood Houses and Adult Community Education Centres’ Collective Agreement 2016, Class 3, Level 8

Reports to: Board of Governance

About Balwyn Community Centre

Balwyn Community Centre (BCC) is a dynamic and welcoming Neighbourhood House serving the Boroondara and neighbouring communities. As a not-for-profit organisation, BCC offers a range of programs and services designed to foster community engagement, lifelong learning, and social connection. The Centre provides activities and services for people of all ages, including recreational classes, social groups, an occasional childcare service, a community garden and venue hire.

Governed by a volunteer Board of Governance, BCC operates with funding from various sources, including local government grants, membership and class fees, and venue hire revenue.

Role purpose

The Centre Director plays a pivotal role in leading and managing BCC, ensuring it remains a welcoming, inclusive, and thriving place for the local community. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Centre’s operations, including program development, community engagement, financial and regulatory compliance, staff leadership, and strategic planning.

The Centre Director will work closely with the Board of Governance, staff, tutors, volunteers, community members, and external stakeholders to deliver high-quality services and programs that respond effectively to community needs. With a strong emphasis on connecting with the community, the role ensures that BCC remains a dynamic and responsive organisation that enhances social connection, lifelong learning, and wellbeing within the local area.

In addition, the role will champion a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and continuous improvement, ensuring that BCC remains a highly valued community asset. This includes leading a team of staff and volunteers in delivering a diverse and engaging range of programs, activities, and services that cater to all ages and demographics within the community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and strategy

Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all BCC programs, services, and activities, ensuring their effective delivery to meet the needs of the local community.

Foster a culture of innovation, inclusion and continuous improvement

· Ensure that BCC operates efficiently and sustainably, maintaining compliance with all relevant legislation, funding agreements, and best practice governance standards.

Act as the primary spokesperson and advocate for BCC, ensuring a positive public profile and active engagement in community networks. Support the Board of Governance in the development and implementation of BCC’s strategic and operational plans, ensuring alignment with the Centre’s mission and community needs.

· Identify and secure new funding opportunities, oversee finances, and ensure the Centre remains financially viable and well-resourced.

Community Engagement

Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant environment that encourages community participation and engagement.

Establish, develop, and maintain strong working relationships with local organisations, and council to enhance service delivery and community impact.

Identify evolving community needs and develop responsive programs, activities, and initiatives that enhance social connection, lifelong learning, and community wellbeing.

Promote BCC’s programs and services through strategic marketing, outreach, and engagement initiatives to ensure maximum community participation.

Human resource management

Lead, manage and collaborate with a diverse team of staff, tutors, contractors, volunteers, and program facilitators, ensuring effective recruitment, induction, supervision, and professional development.

Ensure compliance with HR policies, employment legislation and workplace health and safety standards.

Implement and oversee best-practice policies and procedures that promote a safe, inclusive, and high-quality community centre experience for all staff and users.

Governance and compliance

· Work collaboratively with the Board of Governance to ensure good governance practices, including developing policies and procedures.

· Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory and funding requirements.

· Prepare reports and provide recommendations to the Board on key organisational matters.

Financial management

Oversee BCC’s financial sustainability by managing budgeting, reporting, and financial controls in collaboration with the Bookkeeper and Board Treasurer.

Identify and secure funding opportunities, including grants, sponsorships, and other revenue streams, to support BCC’s long-term viability.

Develop, implement, and monitor financial strategies and policies that align with funding body requirements, regulatory compliance, and best-practice governance.

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Qualifications and experience

Relevant tertiary qualification in Community Development, Social Work, Education, Business Management, or a related field.

Demonstrated experience in leading community-based organisations, particularly within the Neighbourhood House sector or a similar community setting.

Strong understanding of community development principles and their application within a community centre environment.

Experience in stakeholder engagement, partnership development, and community advocacy.

Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, grant writing, and understanding of financial reporting.

Proficiency in using Microsoft Office, relevant accounting systems, and digital communication platforms.

Current Police Check and Working with Children Check (or willingness to obtain them).

Preferable: First Aid and CPR certification or willingness to obtain.

Selection criteria

Proven ability to manage a dynamic community centre, with experience in program planning, service delivery, and stakeholder engagement.

Demonstrated knowledge of the Neighbourhood House sector and a commitment to community development values.

Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience in staff coordination, working with volunteers, and capacity-building.

Experience in financial management, including budgeting and grant applications.

Highly developed interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Ability to identify community needs, develop innovative programs, and drive positive social outcomes.

Excellent problem-solving skills, with a sound understanding of risk management, compliance, and organisational governance.

8. Knowledge and experience in early childhood education, adult learning, or recreational programs.

Other requirements

BCC is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all community members, including children and vulnerable groups. The successful candidate must adhere to Child Safety Standards and complete relevant training as required.

A six-month probationary period applies to this role.

Occasional after-hours and on call work will be required to support the ongoing programs of the Centre.

Why join Balwyn Community Centre?

Balwyn Community Centre offers a unique and rewarding work environment where you can make a meaningful impact. We provide opportunities for professional growth, a supportive team culture, and flexible work arrangements. A commitment to work-life balance ensures that our team members thrive both professionally and personally.

Balwyn Community Centre values diversity and inclusion in all forms – gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

How to apply

To apply, please submit a cover letter addressing the selection criteria and your resume to Deb Austin [email protected]
Applications close 5 May 2025

For further information, please contact Deb Austin, 03 9836 7942 [email protected]