Head of Government Affairs

• Employ your exceptional government understanding and breadth of networks and connections
• Leverage Red Cross’s unique auxiliary status to government
• Identify and advance opportunities that amplify the power of humanity

The Position

Australian Red Cross seeks to appoint a highly credible and independent Head of Government Affairs to drive a program of highly ethical, sustainable and effective Government engagement. By law, the organisation has a unique independent and auxiliary status with government which affords the organisation certain mandates which include humanitarian activities such as disasters and emergencies. A key element of the role will be to educate, reinforce and leverage the humanitarian auxiliary status that the organisation has with Government. Another key element of the role is to partner internally in the organisation to create opportunities with tangible outcomes.

Ideally based in Canberra, Sydney or Melbourne, the Head of Government Affairs reports to the Chief Operating Officer. Externally, the role cultivates highly trusted relationships that enable humanitarian influencing with key strategic areas of focus across Government, mainly at Federal and State level. The five core areas of focus are: climate adaption, emergencies and disasters; migration; community activity and programs; international; and International Laws of War. Internally, the role works across the organisation to support an amplified and consistent voice to Government.

Equipped with experience gained working with Government Ministers and senior government leaders, the successful candidate will be known as bi-partisan and independent and will be respected by all sides of government. They will bring a contemporary approach to stakeholder engagement and will evidence a record of supporting revenue growth and government relationship development. Presenting with maturity and gravitas, they will be recognised as a genuine collaborator who draws in the right people at the right time. Experience in one or more of the abovementioned core areas of focus is advantageous as is experience with the NFP sector.

The Organisation

Red Cross is part of the world’s largest humanitarian Movement. Red Cross mobilises the power of humanity to bring people and communities together in times of need and builds on community strengths.

As a body independent of government, and with no political, religious, or cultural affiliation, the organisation strives to improve peoples’ lives and build their resilience no matter who they are or where they live.

All Red Cross work is guided by the seven Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross Red Crescent movement: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality.

A strong and active Red Cross can do much to assist public authorities and all levels of government in the humanitarian field. There are a number of characteristics that distinguish Australian Red Cross from nongovernment organisations (NGOs), the United Nations (UN) and other elements of civil society.

For more information: www.redcross.org.au

To apply – please click on ‘APPLY NOW’ and using reference ARChga0723, address your cover letter and resume to Deborah Komesaroff or David Baber, of Fisher Leadership, or call 1300 347 437 for further information.