Chief Executive Officer

Speld QLD has been transforming the lives of children and adults with learning difficulties across Queensland for more than 50 years.

The organisation is driven by a deep commitment to inclusion, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their potential.

As a values-based not-for-profit, Speld QLD is primarily funded by the Queensland Government and supported by a highly experienced team of psychologists, speech pathologists, educators and specialist advisors.

Speld QLD is committed to evidence-based practices, empowering individuals, families and educators with the knowledge, tools and support needed to build confidence and unlock lifelong learning success.

About the Role Speld QLD is seeking a values-driven Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the organisation and drive its strategic vision.

The CEO will provide inspirational leadership, ensuring high-quality services, financial sustainability and operational excellence while expanding Speld QLD's impact and reach across Queensland and beyond.

The CEO will be the public champion and trusted advocate for people with learning difficulties, building influential relationships with government, educators, donors and community partners.

The CEO will foster a positive, values-driven culture and elevate awareness of learning challenges through public forums, media and events, raising the organisation's profile both locally and nationally.

The CEO will also lead innovation and growth, oversee fundraising and donor engagement, and ensure robust governance, compliance and reporting, positioning Speld QLD as a leading voice and influential advocate in the sector.

About the Person The ideal candidate will be an experienced executive with strategic capability, emotional intelligence and values alignment to lead an organisation in a period of growth and transformation.

They will have demonstrated success in fundraising, donor engagement and financial management, with the vision and capability to drive organisational growth, sustainability and long-term impact.

With confidence and emotional intelligence, they will forge trusted, collaborative relationships across all levels, engaging staff, volunteers, government, educators, donors and the wider community.

They will champion inclusion, culturally safe practices and meaningful engagement with First Nations communities, while bringing a deep understanding of the needs of individuals with learning difficulties.

Experience working with a Board and well-established networks across State and Federal Government, particularly in education, is highly desirable.

Experience in advocacy, policy influence or sector leadership at a state or national level will be highly regarded.

Driven by a genuine passion for education, the successful candidate will elevate Speld QLD's profile and lead initiatives that create meaningful, life‑changing outcomes for the individuals and communities it serves.

Application To request the candidate information booklet, please contact Lori Smith via

Alternatively, please submit your application (CV and cover letter) via the apply button.

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