Chief Executive Officer

Lead a First Nations-led organisation creating lasting social and economic change through community-driven development.

• Shape the next phase of First Nations economic development
• Build sustainable funding and influential national partnerships
• Lead with community, cultural authority and practical impact

The organisation

Community First Development is a national, First Nations-led organisation that works by invitation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Grounded in self-determination, it supports communities to identify their own priorities and connects them with skilled volunteers, partners and expertise to turn those priorities into practical, lasting outcomes.

Community First Development is entering an important next phase: strengthening its contribution to economic development, enterprise and sustainable local economies while preserving its trusted, community-led approach.
  
The role

The Chief Executive Officer will lead Community First Development through this next phase of strategy, impact and growth. Working closely with the incoming Chair and Board, the CEO will clarify the organisation’s role within the broader First Nations ecosystem, deepen relationships with communities and government, and build a more sustainable, diversified funding base across philanthropy, government, business and other partners.

This influential role calls for a grounded, pragmatic and commercially astute executive who understands Aboriginal Australia and the wider policy and economic development landscape. Collaborative, independent-minded and low ego, they will turn long-term ambition into substantial outcomes and work credibly with mob, government, funders, business and the Board.

Candidates based in Canberra, ACT are preferred; however, candidates from other locations may be considered.

This is an identified position. Applicants must be Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

To apply

People for Purpose is partnering with Community First Development to lead the search for this role.

1. We invite you to read the position description (https://shorturl.at/xOJVD).
2. To review Community First Development’s annual reports and financial statements, please visit their website at https://communityfirstdevelopment.org.au ACNC profile at https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/8b11b6d6-2daf-e811-a95e-000d3ad24c60/profile.
3. Once you have absorbed this information and completed your own research, if you have specific questions, please call us on 0468 625 252 or email [email protected]
4. Your application will include your CV, as well as a cover letter outlining how your skills and experience align to this opportunity and why you are interested in joining Community First Development. A considered cover letter will be an important part of your application.

Applications close at 5pm on Sunday 6th September, 2026.