Head of Community & Aquatic Programs

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The Head of Community & Aquatic Programs is a senior leadership position responsible for the development, delivery, and growth of SLSSA community-focused initiatives including VACSWIM, Surf Babies, community water safety programs, and a diverse portfolio of inclusive and culturally focused deliverables. It drives innovation, builds and sustains strategic partnerships, and advocates for water safety and the aquatics industry across South Australia.

With a strong emphasis on community impact, the role ensures programs evolve to meet the emerging needs of community groups and the aquatic industry, while advancing SLSSA’s mission and strategic objectives. It drives sustainable growth, strengthens community engagement, and delivers measurable outcomes that enhance water safety participation statewide.

Key Areas of Responsibility Program Operations Lead the planning, delivery, and evaluation of statewide programs, including VACSWIM, Surf Babies, Community Water Safety Sessions, CALD, Aboriginal and School Programs.

Collaborate with providers and partners to ensure the successful delivery of programs.

Drive year-on-year participation growth through data-informed decisions and targeted marketing.

Oversee the recruitment and management of a seasonal workforce, ensuring qualifications, child safety, and WHS standards meet or exceed industry benchmarks.

Lead and support a high-performing team of staff and volunteers, fostering a purpose-driven culture aligned with SLSSA’s values.

Embed innovation and resilience in program delivery, including proactive risk management and program continuity plans.

Anticipate emerging community needs and translate them into scalable, innovative solutions that align with SLSSA’s strategic objectives.

Lead the development of inclusive initiatives that meet the needs for at-risk populations including CALD, Aboriginal and remote communities.

Drive co-designed program models that strengthen accessibility, relevance and value.

Ensure VACSWIM and other SLSSA programs remain nationally recognised as leaders in water safety education through continuous improvement and industry engagement.

Position SLSSA as South Australia’s trusted peak authority on pool-based water safety, strengthening public confidence and industry credibility.

Drive the ongoing evolution of industry-focused initiatives, including Watch Around Water and the SA Aquatics Conference, to ensure they remain relevant, innovative, and impactful.

Advocate for aquatic industry priorities by fostering strategic partnerships, engaging in informed consultation, and applying evidence-based leadership at both state and national levels.

Represent SLSSA on state and national committees, advisory panels, and working groups, shaping policy, guiding initiatives, and championing best practice across the industry.

Other Secure and maintain grant and funding opportunities through strategic relationships with government, corporate, philanthropic, and other partners that support long-term program sustainability.

Manage budgets for all community and aquatic programs, ensuring financial accountability and compliance with funding requirements.

Deliver timely, accurate reports, evaluations, and acquittals to demonstrate impact and maintain stakeholder confidence.

Undertake other duties as required to support SLSSA’s strategic objectives.

Team Performance Contribute to the overall success of the SLSSA team by promoting open and transparent communication, fostering mutual respect, and modelling the highest standards of integrity.

Take a proactive leadership role in cultivating a positive, professional, and high-performance culture that inspires excellence across SLSSA.

Deliver all responsibilities with a commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring programs, processes, and outcomes consistently evolve to meet organisational and community needs.

Skills, Experience and Qualifications Proven track record in leading and managing successful community-focused programs.

A dynamic, respected leader with a demonstrated history of growth, innovation, and organisational success.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage, influence, and inspire diverse stakeholders.

A passion for making a meaningful difference in the community, backed by demonstrated achievements in community impact initiatives.

Prior experience and knowledge of the VACSWIM Program.

Understanding of and experience in the aquatics industry.

Qualifications A relevant tertiary qualification in education, community development, sport, or recreation is desirable but not essential.

Personal Attributes Leads with authenticity, integrity, and a willingness to model SLSSA’s values in all actions and decisions.

Demonstrates vision, drive, and initiative in delivering organisational strategic objectives.

Highly motivated and enthusiastic, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively to maximise outcomes.

Thrives under pressure, maintaining strong attention to detail while managing multiple priorities with composure and effectiveness.

Hours of work The position is full-time, with standard hours from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday, and includes some after-hours and weekend work during peak periods. Key time commitments include:

December & January: Some weekend and public holiday work will be required. Adjusted hours will also apply on VACSWIM delivery days.

Program Activations & Staff Induction Days: Occasional weekend work or extended hours.

Special Requirements The successful applicant will be required to understand and comply with SLSSA’s and SLSA’s Child Safe Policies and practices. They will also need to satisfy the requirements of a Working with Children’s Check and National Police Check and have a current driver’s license. There may be further requirements for the successful applicant to be trained and educated in other relevant areas to ensure the appropriate leadership and skills.

Position Description Visit www.surflifesavingsa.com.au/careers to view the full position description.

Please note that applications submitted via Seek will not be considered.

Brief enquiries may be made to Damien Marangon on

08 8354 6900 .

Applications close 5:00pm

Wednesday 4 March 2026

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