Chief Executive Officer

Lead an organisation that has been changing lives – one story at a time – for more than 25 years. Ironbark Aboriginal Corporation is entering an important new chapter. What began as a small community initiative has evolved into one of the Northern Territory's most respected Aboriginal organisations, a place where people develop skills, find employment, start businesses, and strengthen their communities. Today, Ironbark employs more than 130 staff and delivers life‑changing opportunities across the Top End.

We support people in remote communities, deliver major national employment programs, and run a diverse range of social and commercial enterprises that create jobs, pride and economic independence for Aboriginal people. As our long‑serving CEO prepares for a well‑deserved transition, the Board is seeking a successor who can continue this momentum with integrity, cultural authority and purpose. This is a rare and meaningful leadership opportunity — and it is preferred that the position be held by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person.

About Ironbark At its core, Ironbark is driven by the belief that employment, opportunity and culture create stronger, healthier communities. From our base in Darwin, the organisation delivers major national employment programs, including Remote Australia Employment Services (RAES) and Workforce Australia. Alongside this, Ironbark operates a diverse group of social and commercial enterprises that create long‑term employment and local economic participation: Aboriginal Bush Traders, Rapid Clean NT, Darwin Precast Products, Ironbark Services NT (cleaning), Ironbark Services NT (property maintenance). Across every program and enterprise, their purpose remains the same: Changing lives – one story at a time.

Role This role calls for a leader who brings cultural grounding, commercial thinking and a deep commitment to community, someone steady enough to walk alongside people on Country, and strategic enough to guide a complex organisation forward. As CEO, you will:

Lead the strategic direction of Ironbark while staying connected to culture and community.

Strengthen partnerships with Traditional Owners, Aboriginal communities, government and industry.

Oversee the delivery of RAES, Workforce Australia and community programs supporting thousands of Aboriginal people.

Provide leadership across Ironbark's social enterprises and commercial businesses.

Maintain strong governance, financial sustainability and organisational performance.

Build, support and grow a capable, values‑driven workforce.

You will be supported by an experienced Executive Team and an Aboriginal Board that understands both the responsibility and privilege of this role. Based in Darwin, the position includes regular travel to regional and remote communities.

About You You are ideally an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander leader who brings wisdom, steadiness and respect. Your background might be in community services, government, employment programs, health, social enterprise, or corporate leadership — but what matters most is how you lead. You will thrive here if you:

Have led complex organisations or programs.

Understand how to work respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal communities.

Can engage confidently with government, industry and funding partners.

Bring strong financial, governance and operational capability.

Value cultural safety, transparency and accountability.

Believe in the power of employment and opportunity.

Want to contribute to something bigger than yourself.

You will also embody Ironbark's values: Commitment, Integrity, Collaboration, Courage and Respect.

Why This Role Matters Ironbark plays a central role in shaping employment, economic participation and community development outcomes across the NT. As CEO, you will influence how opportunities are created, how culture is championed, and how future Aboriginal leaders are supported in their growth. This is not simply a senior leadership role; it is an opportunity to leave a legacy that strengthens communities for generations. The Board has planned a thoughtful transition. The new CEO is expected to commence in April.

Salary & Benefits

Salary $220,000 – $240,000 + superannuation.

Salary packaging.

Fully maintained vehicle.

Laptop, phone and technology support.

5 weeks of annual leave.

Relocation support for the right candidate.

Anticipated commencement: April.

How to Apply Please apply directly online by submitting: • A current resume • A cover letter addressing the key selection criteria and outlining your interest in the role.

For a confidential conversation, please TEXT: Rebecca Perrone, Managing Director – Brooker Consulting on.

A call time will be booked upon receiving your text. To request the full Candidate Information Pack, please email: Vasana - she will forward the pack directly to you.

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