About the RFDS Federation and Federation Office

The RFDS is a national, federated charitable health organisation delivering primary healthcare and 24-hour emergency medical and health services to those that live, work or travel in regional, rural and remote Australia. Long known as one of the largest aeromedical organisations, the RFDS delivers healthcare where mainstream health services are not as readily accessible, using its broad-reaching air and ground-service fleet and passionate and skilled workforce.

The RFDS Federation is made up of 7 companies: 6 Operating Sections (Western Operations (WA), Queensland Section, South Eastern Section (NSW & ACT), Tasmania Section (TAS), Victoria Section (VIC) and South Australia & Northern Territory Section (SA/NT)) and the Federation Office. The Federation Office's Strategic Priorities are (1) Excellence in Contract Management, (2) Strategic Commonwealth Advocacy, (3) Brand Promotion and Protection, and (4) Leadership on Strategic National Issues for the RFDS Federation, working collaboratively with the 6 Operating Sections to provide a mantle of safety for Australia's regional, rural and remote communities.

About the Role

The Head of Strategic Projects plays a critical leadership role in driving high-impact initiatives that advance the mission and strategic priorities of the RFDS Federation. This role requires a seasoned professional with exceptional project management capabilities, strategic insight, analytical skills, and the ability to foster collaboration across diverse stakeholders.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Federation Chief Executive to lead complex, multi-stakeholder projects that deliver measurable outcomes to strengthen the collective impact and performance of the RFDS Federation.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Project Leadership and Management

Lead the design, planning, and execution of strategic projects that support Federation-wide goals and initiatives.

Design project frameworks that balance national priorities with the diverse local needs of RFDS Sections, ensuring alignment with established governance structures and flexibility to adapt to evolving directions or project objectives.

Conduct robust research and analysis to inform project direction, policy development, and strategic decision-making.

Implement project management methodologies and tools to monitor and measure project performance and impact.

Identify opportunities for innovation, continuous improvement, and shared learning within each strategic project.

Monitor sector trends, regulatory developments, and emerging issues affecting strategic projects, proactively identifying risk exposures and delivering effective mitigation and management strategies.

Identify and pursue government grant funding opportunities to support project implementation, enhance delivery capacity, and maximise outcome achievement.

Contribute to the development of strategic frameworks, advocacy positions, and funding proposals emerging from each strategic project initiative.

Prepare high-quality reports, briefings, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders and audiences.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

Build and maintain strong relationships with RFDS Sections, partners, and external stakeholders.

Facilitate cross-sectional collaboration, consultation, and consensus-building with RFDS Sections.

Navigate complex stakeholder environments with diplomacy and strategic influence.

About You

Extensive experience (min. 10 years) in project management, preferably in a strategy, policy, or business development context.

Demonstrated ability to conduct and apply rigorous research and analysis to solve complex problems and inform decision-making.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to work collaboratively across internal and external stakeholders.

Highly developed analytical skills and experience in policy, economics, financial analysis, and business strategy.

Exceptional organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple competing priorities and deadlines.

Relevant tertiary qualifications in Business, Economics, Policy, or a related field.

This highly rewarding role is Canberra based and offers free onsite staff parking and not-for-profit tax benefits.

How to Apply

Please send your Resume and 1-2 page Cover Letter addressing the key responsibilities and your suitability towards requirements for the role to: [email protected]. For further information about the role, please contact [email protected].

Applications will close COB Friday 10 October 2025.

NB: Applications that do not include an Cover Letter addressing the key responsibilities and requirements will not be considered.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service welcomes and embraces diversity and strives to provide a culturally safe and inclusive workplace for all employees.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service acknowledges and pays respect to the past and present Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation.