ABOUT THE ROLE

This is an Adelaide-based position with some work from home flexibility; travel and out of hours work may be required.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Location: Institute Building, North Terrace & Kintore Ave, Adelaide SA 5000

Reports To: Board

Salary: $110,000 + Super (FTE)

About Us

Writers SA puts writing at the centre of life. Our mission is to create and sustain a community of writing and reading. We have a current state-wide membership of approximately 650. The organisation is in the mid stages of a four-year State Government operational grant with additional funding pending for new projects. Approximately 30% of our total revenue is earned through memberships, programs and workshop fees.

For our Strategic Plan and Annual Reports go to www.writerssa.org.au and click on About Us

Term and Probation

This is an ongoing role, with a 12-month probation period.

Summary of the Role

The CEO provides leadership and strategic direction for Writers SA, ensuring alignment with its mission, values, and goals. The CEO is responsible for the overall management, financial health, and operational effectiveness of the organisation. They serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for the organisation, reporting to its Board, leading its staff, and fostering relationships with stakeholders, partners, funders, and the community.

Key Responsibilites and Professional Attributes

We seek someone with strong financial acumen to ensure a solid foundation for our small organisation to deliver for our members and the broader South Australian community.

Leadership & Strategic Planning

Lead the development and implementation of the organisation’s Strategic Plan in collaboration with the Staff and Board.

Foster a culture of transparency, inclusivity, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Inspire and motivate staff, volunteers, and stakeholders to achieve organisational goals.

Governance & Board Relations

Work closely with the Board to ensure strong governance practices.

Provide timely and accurate reports to the Board regarding the organisation’s operations, performance, and challenges.

Support Board development, engagement, and succession planning.

Operations & Team Management

Oversee daily operations to ensure efficiency, effectiveness in pursuit of operational strategies designed to achieve goals.

Lead and support a strong senior management team; foster professional development and staff engagement.

Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.

Financial Stewardship

Develop and manage the annual budget; ensure financial sustainability and accountability.

Oversee financial reporting, audits, and risk management.

Identify and pursue diverse funding streams, including grants, donations, and partnerships.

Fundraising & Development

Serve as a key driver of fundraising strategies and donor engagement.

Cultivate relationships with current and prospective donors, sponsors, foundations, and government agencies.

Represent the organisation in grant proposals, reports, and major donor solicitations.

External Relations & Advocacy

Act as the representative of the organisation.

Strengthen the organisation’s presence through strategic communication and public relations.

Build partnerships with community organisations, government, and industry leaders.

Qualifications & Experience

Proven experience in senior leadership, preferably within a not-for-profit or mission-driven organisation.

Strong understanding of non-profit governance, fundraising, and financial management.

Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills.

Ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Strategic thinker with demonstrated success in organisational growth and sustainability.

Tertiary degree or similar in a direct or relatable field preferred.

Personal Attributes

Passion for the mission and values of Writers SA

Visionary and inspirational leader

Integrity, humility, and resilience

Culturally competent and community-focused

Collaborative and empowering leadership style

APPLICATION PROCESS

Please submit the following information:

● A cover letter outlining why you're a good fit for Writers SA addressing the Key Responsibilities & Professional Attributes (max 3 x A4 pages at size 12 font)

● A copy of your CV

● A brief outline of your vision for Writers SA (no more than 1 x A4 page at size 12 font)

● The names and contact details of three referees

Send as a word document or PDF with your name and the position title as the document name, emailed to Katherine Woehlert, Operations Manager, at

[email protected] by COB Wednesday 28 May, 2025.