Lead with Purpose – Empower Wuthathi Country, Culture & Community

Wuthathi Aboriginal Corporation (WAC) is seeking a visionary and dynamic General Manager to lead our growing organisation. Reporting directly to the WAC Board and working closely with the Wuthathi Tribal Elders Council, this role will provide strategic leadership and operational excellence to advance Wuthathi aspirations of returning to Country, creating employment and business opportunities, and re-establishing a community on ancestral lands.

About Wuthathi Aboriginal Corporation

WAC is the Registered Native Title Body Corporate holding interests for the Wuthathi people across 1,182 sq km of land and 8,072 sq km of sea Country in north-eastern Cape York Peninsula and adjacent marine areas. With an office in Cairns and a growing Ranger Base at Shelburne Bay, WAC is a vibrant, community-driven organisation. Our vision is:

“To control our own destiny as our elders before us; in caring for Wuthathi country, culture and community.”

Key Responsibilities

Deliver the vision, mission, and strategic goals of the Board and Elders.

Lead strategic planning, operational management, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Uphold Wuthathi Kincha (Lore) in land and sea decision-making.

Manage financial sustainability, risk, and compliance frameworks.

Develop and strengthen partnerships and secure funding through grants and contracts.

Lead and mentor a diverse, cross-cultural team.

Engage with stakeholders, partners, and government agencies to advocate for Wuthathi priorities.

Support Board development and effective governance practices.

What You’ll Bring

Proven senior management experience (preferably within an Aboriginal corporation) with demonstrated expertise in strategy, governance, human resources, financial and risk management.

Deep respect for Aboriginal Lore and customs and understanding of colonial history and its impacts.

Strong track record in stakeholder engagement, partnership development, grant writing, and contract management.

Excellent communication skills, capable of working constructively with Elders, Traditional Owners, staff, and external partners.

Ability to lead and develop people within a culturally diverse organisation.

Knowledge of relevant policies and legislative frameworks including the CATSI Act, Native Title Act, Aboriginal Land Act, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act, and others.

A commitment to cultural integrity, environmental sustainability, and community wellbeing.

Mandatory Requirements

Relative tertiary qualifications in Business Administration or Conservation and Eco System Management.

Eligibility to obtain a Blue Card for working with children.

Manual driver’s licence.

Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including weekends when required.

Why Join Us?

Lead a respected First Nations organisation with significant influence in land and sea management.

Work alongside passionate Elders and staff dedicated to cultural restoration and community development.

Enjoy a dynamic work environment combining office and on-Country operations.

Competitive salary package and relocation assistance.

Opportunities for professional growth and cultural immersion.

How to Apply

Submit your CV, a cover letter, and a response to the selection criteria (available on request) via seek

For a confidential discussion, contact Kori Totorewa 07 4249 3365 or email [email protected]

Wuthathi and First Nations people are strongly encouraged to apply.
This position is not identified, and all applicants will be assessed against the selection criteria.

This role is:

Subject to a six (6) month probationary period and annual performance reviews.

Dependent on ongoing funding and organisational capacity.