Help lead Australia’s independent evidence-based voice for nature

Australia is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth — yet we are also a global leader in species loss.

The Biodiversity Council exists to change that.

We are an independent not-for-profit organisation bringing together leading scientists, First Nations knowledge holders and other experts to ensure the best available evidence informs public debate, policy and action to halt and reverse biodiversity loss.

Through expert networks, strategic advocacy and public engagement, the Council works to elevate the importance of nature in national decision-making and mobilise solutions that protect and restore biodiversity and Country.

We are seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through its next phase of national impact.

The role

Reporting to the Board, the CEO will provide strategic leadership to maximise impact and strengthen the Biodiversity Council as Australia’s most trusted independent voice for biodiversity.

As well as leading our Biodiversity Council team, you will be responsible for providing oversight of the Nature Media Centre, which connects journalists with impactful stories and trusted spokespeople to improve the volume and quality of reporting on nature and the environment.

This is a highly visible leadership role working closely with scientists, First Nations leaders, philanthropy, media, civil society and government.

Key responsibilities

• Lead delivery of the Biodiversity Council’s strategy to influence policy, public debate and action on biodiversity
• Along with our councillors, represent the organisation publicly across media, policy and national conversations about nature
• Lead and support a small, high-performing executive team of the Biodiversity Council and oversee the Nature Media Centre
• Build strong partnerships with experts, First Nations leaders, NGOs, philanthropy, business and government
• Strengthen and diversify philanthropic funding to ensure long-term organisational sustainability
• Nurture a positive and supportive working environment for staff and councillors characterised by high levels of respect, honesty, transparency and collaboration.
• Work closely with the Board to guide strategy, governance and organisational development

About you

You are a strategic, credible and trusted leader who is passionate about protecting nature.

You bring the ability to translate complex knowledge into compelling public narratives, build partnerships across sectors and lead a mission-driven organisation delivering national impact.

You will likely bring:

• Senior leadership experience in the not-for-profit, policy, research, environmental or advocacy sectors
• Experience influencing public debate and engaging with media and policymakers
• Demonstrated ability to lead impactful advocacy or communications initiatives
• Strong governance experience and ability to work effectively with boards
• Experience building partnerships across government, philanthropy, academia and civil society
• Experience leading and motivating high-performing teams

Experience supporting First Nations leadership and partnerships is highly valued.

Deep biodiversity expertise is not required, but the ability to rapidly grasp and effectively communicate complex environmental and policy issues is essential.

Why this role matters

This is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation shaping Australia’s response to the biodiversity crisis.

As CEO, you will work alongside leading experts to elevate the role of science in public decision-making and help secure a future where nature and Country thrive.

A position description is attached.