Position Title: Programs & Community Engagement Manager

Location: 3 Stuart Terrace, Alice Springs NT 0870

Reporting to: General Manager

Division: Programs

Approved by & Date: CEO, February 2025

Duration: Fixed Term – June 2026

Organisation Statement: Akeyulerre Aboriginal Corporation was established by Arrernte Elders and community leaders in 2000, as a place for Arrernte people to practice and celebrate their culture and pass it on to the next generations. Akeyulerre (pronounced A-kee-lu-ra) is often called the ‘healing centre’ in recognition of the important role that culture plays in healing and strengthening the community. Since its establishment, Akeyulerre has been helping Arrernte families grow stronger through culture while at the same time creating jobs through culturally-based social enterprises. Akeyulerre has established a strong track record in sound governance and management that brings together Arrernte and Western law and is underpinned by the strong roots of Arrernte land, culture, ancestors, knowledge, language, healing, kinship relationships, song and stories. Akeyulerre is a not-for-profit organisation governed and run by Arrernte people. Our membership is made up of Central Australian Aboriginal people who elect a 12-person Board of Directors from their communities.

Purpose of the Position: The Programs & Community Engagement Manager oversees program delivery for IAS core initiatives aimed at closing the Gap outcomes. They ensure that Akeyulerre programs are implemented effectively, are culturally appropriate, and driven by the community. This position improves systems by enhancing structures, monitoring performance, and promoting community engagement. The main funding body is NIAA, and this role will maintain a strong working relationship with the agency.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Program Leadership & Systems Strengthening: Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of Akeyulerre’s IAS core programs. Develop systems for continuous improvement, ensuring long-term impact and sustainability. Lead the design and integration of best-practice models for cultural and family support services. Ensure programs are aligned with funding agreements, organisational priorities, and community needs.

Team & Staff Development: Manage program staff for efficient service delivery. Strengthen team capacity, providing mentorship, professional development, and performance oversight. Ensure all staff operate within cultural protocols, safety standards, and organisational policies.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement: Establish and maintain relationships with Elders, families, and community partners, with guidance from the Cultural Services coordinator and General Manager. Develop systems to enhance client participation, ensuring culturally safe engagement. Represent Akeyulerre in community forums, stakeholder meetings, and public events.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Oversee program KPIs, ensuring all activities meet compliance and reporting requirements. Ensure timely and accurate financial reports are submitted to the General Manager, in collaboration with the finance team, to support effective decision-making and compliance with funding bodies. Improve systems for data collection and evaluation, ensuring programs are outcomes-focused. Support the General Manager in reporting to funders, the Board, and other stakeholders. Undertake additional tasks as requested by the General Manager or CEO.

Selection Criteria:

Position Specific Requirements: Proven experience in program leadership, with a focus on system improvement and impact measurement. Ability to develop and enhance sustainable program structures that drive long-term change. Strong leadership and team management skills, including mentoring and professional development. Expertise in community engagement, ensuring culturally safe and responsive service delivery. Experience in KPI tracking, reporting, and compliance with funding agreements. Strong organisational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities. Expertise in managing sensitive information with a strong emphasis on confidentiality, data protection, secure communication practices, and appropriate referrals. Experience in budget oversight, grant acquittal, and financial reporting. Strong stakeholder engagement skills, including collaboration with government and community organisations. Demonstrated understanding of and respect for Arrernte culture and values. Understanding of Arrernte culture, language, and traditions, or willingness to learn. NT Working with Children Clearance (Ochre Card) and National Police Check (or willingness to obtain). Current NT Driver’s Licence.

Desirable: Experience working in an Aboriginal organisation or with Aboriginal communities. Knowledge of social enterprises and community-led initiatives. Experience in policy development and strategic planning. Familiarity with evidence-based frameworks such as Signs of Safety and Safe and Together. Current First Aid Certificate (or willingness to obtain).

General Requirements: Comply with Federal, NT, and Local Government legislation, regulations, permits, and policies. Adhere to delegations, code of conduct, and general conditions of employment. Ensure adherence to workplace health and safety (WHS) policies. Contribute to continuous quality improvement activities. Maintain confidentiality of client, staff, and organisational information. Participate in supervision, performance reviews, and approved training. Maintain attendance, payroll, and leave records in accordance with procedures.

Delegation of Authority: The Programs & Community Engagement Manager operates under the Board-approved Delegation of Authority Schedule, reporting to the General Manager, who in turn reports to the CEO. This role has clear decision-making authority in program management, financial oversight, stakeholder engagement, and compliance.

The delegation of authority for this role includes:

Program Oversight: Authority to plan, implement, and evaluate programs within approved strategic and funding frameworks, ensuring alignment with Akeyulerre’s mission and priorities.

Financial & Budget Management: Manage program budgets, ensuring expenditures align with funding agreements and financial policies. Monitor financial performance, tracking program expenditures against budget forecasts and funding allocations. Prepare and contribute to financial reporting, ensuring timely grant acquittals and compliance with funding bodies. Identify financial risks, making recommendations to ensure the financial sustainability of programs.

Operational Decision-Making: Authority to lead and direct program coordinators and staff, oversee program schedules, and ensure resources are effectively allocated to maximise program impact.

Stakeholder & Community Engagement: Represent Akeyulerre in external meetings, funding negotiations, and partnership discussions, advocating for program sustainability and community-led initiatives.

Compliance & Reporting: Ensure all program activities comply with contractual, legal, and funding requirements, with financial and operational reports submitted to the General Manager, CEO, and Board as required.

Expenditure Approval & Financial Delegation: The Programs & Community Engagement Manager has delegated authority to approve expenditures within approved program budgets, in line with the Board-approved Delegation of Authority Schedule. Any spending above the allocated budget requires prior approval from the General Manager or CEO.

Note: The Delegation of Authority may be reviewed and updated as required to align with organisational priorities, governance structures, and funding obligations.