Where Governance Meets Sky | CEO, Gliding Australia

About Us
Gliding Australia is the national body for the sport of gliding in Australia. With a rich 75-year history and approximately 3,000 members across 60+ clubs, we’re a nimble and forward-thinking organisation championing the freedom to fly and supporting recreational aviation with the highest safety, operational and integrity standards. We’re approved by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority under Civil Aviation Safety Regulations Part 149 and are proud of our strong community, culture of volunteerism, and commitment to safe skies.

Why this Role Matters
Our inaugural CEO has recently stepped down due to health reasons. Under his leadership, the organisation transitioned to a contemporary structure aligned with aviation legislation, enhanced member services, and grew national visibility. We’re now seeking an energetic, curious, and values-aligned leader to continue that momentum… building influence, capability, and community in equal measure.

What You’ll Be Doing
This is not your typical CEO role… it’s part visionary, hands on, and fully collaborative.

Lead a small passionate team of part time staff and experienced volunteers

Drive delivery across safety, airworthiness, operations, and sport development

Advocate for gliding at local, state, federal and international levels

Ensure compliance with aviation regulation (Accountable Manager under CASA legislation)

Foster strong member relationships and an inclusive culture

Work directly with the Board to shape and execute strategy

Represent the organisation nationally and internationally

About You
You’re a communicator, a listener, a connector. You can see the big picture and manage the moving parts to bring it to life.

Proven leadership in a dynamic or volunteer-based membership organisation

Strong written and verbal communication skills… clear, compelling, and considered

Comfortable liaising with government, regulators, and stakeholders

Exposure to aviation or sporting bodies a plus, but not essential

Strategic thinker with a track record of implementation

Inclusive leadership style with a flair for motivating diverse teams

Experience in the not-for-profit sector and understanding of dispersed member-driven organisations

Curious, open-minded and enthusiastic about grassroots sport and club environment

Benefits
- 4-day week (32 hours)
- Work from home available (any Australian location) or if based in Melbourne our office at Broadmeadows is available
- Occasional travel
- Intellectual and creative stimulation
- Supportive Management and Administrative Team
- High autonomy and the chance to innovate
- $115,500 + super
- Purpose-led, impact-focused

Interested?
- Please SUBMIT your application (CV + cover letter) to [email protected]
- Applications close Monday 30 June 2025

- A more detailed job description can be made available
- More info or a confidential chat? Reach out via the email above and we’ll be in touch.