ORGANISATION OVERVIEW 

Bridge Darebin is a vibrant, not-for-profit community organisation, charity based in Darebin that offers a holistic approach to community wellbeing. As a social enterprise that incorporates a Neighbourhood House, a Learn Local adult education provider, a low-waste sustainable café and Occasional Childcare Centres, inclusivity and community empowerment are at the core of our mission and values. Bridge Darebin’s education programs are learner-centred and delivered alongside services that put community needs at the forefront.

The organisation has five main pillars of activity across multiple sites: adult education, children’s services, community programs, venue hire and our socially and environmentally responsible café, Moon Rabbit.

Across these areas we've developed a series of sustainability initiatives and programs that promote an inclusive environment where everyone can participate in building a more sustainable and equitable Darebin.

We value community ownership and management and provide our services free from discrimination. Bridge Darebin strives to create a workplace culture and an environment that values staff and is equitable and inclusive.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Community Education Manager to join our team. As the Community Education Manager, you will be responsible for the design, development and implementation of community, educational programs and initiatives that benefit the local community. You will work closely with community members, networks, and stakeholders to identify community and educational needs and design programs that address those needs. This role requires strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a passion for community development and education.

Responsibilities Summary:

• Collaborate with community members, networks, and stakeholders to assess community and educational needs and develop strategies to address them.
• Design, plan, and implement educational programs, workshops, and events that align with Bridge Darebin's strategy, purpose and values.
• Identify, apply and acquit appropriate grants/funding opportunities to fund community programs.
• Recruit, train, and manage 4 – 5 staff as well as over 30 trainers and volunteers in the Community Education Department.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with stakeholders to enhance opportunities for community members.

Essential Skills/ Experience:

•  A relevant tertiary qualification in Community Development or equivalent industry experience  
• Demonstrated experience of designing, delivering and implementing community education and development programs 
• An understanding of contemporary Community Development principles 
• An understanding of social enterprise and building business industry partnerships 
• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills 
• A demonstrated ability to liaise with people at all levels and from all backgrounds in an informative, accurate and positive manner 
• Demonstrated ability to connect with diverse community members and involve them in problem-solving issues important to them 
• Demonstrated ability to prioritise, organise and complete work within established deadlines 
• Demonstrated ability to follow policies and procedures and to use initiative, think laterally and strategically 
• Ability to work cooperatively and inclusively within the workplace culture of Bridge Darebin 
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Passion for community development and a commitment to lifelong learning.

A position description is attached.