Lead People. Strengthen Culture. Support Volunteers

Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of volunteer-led emergency services

Leadership position in a mission-driven, values-led organisation

Enjoy autonomy and meaningful impact from day one

Rescue. Response. Respect. We Are Marine Rescue.

At Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW), we exist to save lives on the water. Every day, over 3,400 volunteers across 46 units respond to emergencies, manage the marine safety radio network, and help educate boaters to stay safe.

Our service is powered by people - volunteers, staff, and leadership working together with shared purpose. Backed by cutting-edge training, a world-class fleet, and the strength of our communities, we proudly serve NSW’s coastline and inland waterways.

We are a unique emergency service, led by values, driven by impact, and fuelled by collaboration. Now, we’re looking for a People & Culture leader to help shape the future of our most important asset - our people.

For more information, visit: www.marinerescuensw.com.au

Leading the Crew Behind the Crew

We’re seeking a Senior Manager, People and Culture to lead our people strategy with empathy, vision, and a deep understanding of volunteer-based organisations.

Reporting to the Deputy Commissioner, this full-time role is based at our Cronulla head office.

In this role, you’ll:

Design and implement a People & Culture strategy aligned with MRNSW’s mission and values

Drive initiatives to recruit, retain and engage volunteers across NSW

Deliver leadership development and succession planning frameworks

Guide staff and volunteer relations, conflict resolution and culture-building

Support operational leaders and the executive with workforce planning and strategic advice

Build strong connections with unit commanders, staff and partner agencies

Ensure people policies are up to date, inclusive, and fit for purpose

Be accountable for governance, risk management, and compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act and other applicable legislation or regulatory frameworks

Drive a safety culture across the organisation

Charting the Waters: Your Onboarding Journey

In your first few weeks, you’ll:

Meet with executive leaders, unit commanders and frontline volunteers

Get a pulse check on current people systems, challenges, and opportunities

Begin shaping a practical roadmap for engagement, support and development

Support real-time HR and volunteer management issues as they arise

Lay the groundwork for strategic, long-term people planning

This is a hands-on leadership role in a tight-knit team - you’ll be welcomed, trusted, and expected to contribute meaningfully from the start.

The People Captain We’ve Been Looking For

You’re steady under pressure, values-led in your leadership, and deeply committed to building cohesive, capable and supported teams.

To be successful in this role, you’ll bring:

At least 5 years’ experience in a senior People & Culture/HR leadership role

Strong knowledge of employment law, industrial relations, and best practice HR

Proven ability to lead cultural change and people strategy in complex environments

Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills

A flexible, humble approach with a genuine appreciation for volunteerism

A full understanding of Work Health and Safety responsibilities and obligations

Current Australian driver’s licence and permanent residency or citizenship

Bonus if you have:

Tertiary qualifications in HR, Business or related fields

Experience in emergency services, community organisations or not-for-profits

Familiarity with workers’ compensation and injury management systems

What You’ll Get When You Join the Crew

We believe in supporting the people who support our mission. You’ll enjoy:

Access to salary packaging benefits of up to $18,550 tax-free

Mobile phone and laptop provided

A collaborative, low-ego team culture that values people first

The chance to influence and grow a truly purpose-driven function

Be the Anchor of Culture. Make the Mission Yours

If you’re ready to lead with heart, clarity and impact, and want to make a genuine difference to the lives of volunteers and the safety of NSW communities, we invite you to apply now.