Chief Executive Officer

Athletics West is seeking an outstanding Chief Executive Officer to lead the growth and evolution of athletics across Western Australia. Reporting to the Board, the CEO provides strategic and operational leadership to the state’s peak athletics body, driving strong governance, financial sustainability and meaningful impact across participation, pathways and performance. This role is pivotal in fostering a safe, inclusive and high-performing environment that supports athletes from grassroots through to elite competition. This is an exceptional opportunity for a values-driven leader to strengthen community connections, elevate organisational performance and champion the future of athletics in Western Australia. Key Accountabilities

Leads delivery of Athletics West’s refreshed strategic plan in line with Board direction and national and state sport priorities. Drives participation growth, inclusion, talent development and high-performance outcomes. Positions Athletics West to respond to sector trends and future opportunities. Governance & Compliance

Acts as the principal liaison between the Board and the organisation. Ensures compliance with ACNC, ASIC, funding agreements and recognised sport governance standards (including Sport Australia principles). Provides clear, timely and accurate reporting to support effective Board decision-making. Oversees financial management, budgeting and risk controls. Builds diversified revenue streams, including government funding, sponsorship and commercial partnerships. Ensures transparent and responsible stewardship of organisational resources. Community Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy

Builds strong relationships with affiliated clubs, athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers. Represents Athletics West with government, Athletics Australia, sponsors and key partners (locally, nationally and internationally). Advocates for athletics within the Western Australian sport system. Builds trust and strong partnerships across the athletics and broader community. Ensures athletics is accessible to all — regardless of age, ability, or background. Promotes health, inclusion, and social connection through sport. Leads local government sport engagement People, Culture & Safe Sport

Leads and develop staff and volunteers within a positive, inclusive and accountable culture, focussed on wellbeing and performance. Ensures safe sport, safeguarding and child safety obligations are embedded across the organisation. Programs, Operations & Member Experience

Oversees effective delivery of participation, development and performance programs. Drives operational efficiency, continuous improvement and digital capability. Enhances the experience and value delivered to members and clubs. Fundraising and Commercial Partnerships

Navigates funding cycles Secures grants (state, federal, philanthropic). Leads negotiations to obtain sponsorship deals. Develops and sustains donor relationships to source additional funding. Sport Development and Events

Oversees the development of pathways for athletes, from grassroots to elite levels. Oversees the delivery of major events, including state championships, community fun runs, and school competitions. Promotes coach and official development, ensuring quality and consistency across the sport. Supports the delivery of sport infrastructure, including relationships with key partners. Innovation and Digital Enablement

Identifies new opportunities to grow athletics in WA. Embraces technology and innovation to improve programs, services, and participation models. Champions digital tools (membership systems, performance tracking, social engagement) to optimise organisational efficiency and customer experiences Innovates programs for youth, volunteers, and communities. Key Performance Indicators

Achievement of strategic objectives Financial sustainability and revenue growth Membership, participation and pathway outcomes Stakeholder engagement and satisfaction Governance, compliance and risk management Organisational culture and staff retention Key Selection Criteria

Senior leadership experience in a not-for-profit, sport or community-based organisation Proven strategic planning and delivery capability Strong financial and commercial acumen Experience working effectively with a Board High-level stakeholder engagement and advocacy skills Demonstrated people leadership across staff and volunteers Strong alignment with values of integrity, inclusion and community impact Experience securing grants, sponsorships or partnerships Experience in athletics or the broader sport sector Knowledge of the WA sport and government funding landscape Change management or organisational transformation experience Understanding of grassroots participation and high-performance pathways What We Offer

An exciting opportunity to shape the future of Athletics West. An attractive remuneration package, including superannuation and phone allowance/phone, motor vehicle allowance, uniform, and 6 weeks leave. A collaborative and passionate team environment and the opportunity to travel interstate and overseas How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria to ***********@gmail.com by 20/03/2026. For a confidential discussion, contact David Rowse, Chair Athletics West on 0414 777 ***. Be careful - Don’t provide your bank or credit card details when applying for jobs. Don\'t transfer any money or complete suspicious online surveys. If you see something suspicious, report this job ad.

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