We’re looking for a Deputy Director, Research and Policy Centre with relevant experience to join BSL’s Research and Policy Centre team based in Fitzroy but working remotely during lockdown.

The Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL) has a clear vision – an Australia free of poverty.

For almost 90 years, we have worked with policy makers and the community for systemic change that will prevent and alleviate poverty in Australia.

We are passionate about the work we do.

We strive to create change that lasts for a more compassionate and just society - a society in which we can all fully participate in social, civic and economic life with the dignity and respect we all deserve.

WHO ARE YOU?

You are a strategic thinker, flexible, enjoy developing and implementing agendas in deep collaboration with others. You are comfortable working across multiple teams. You are an organised, articulate, and supportive leader who can help develop the talent of your direct reports. You are as comfortable listening as you are leading change. Thinking critically about the root causes of poverty is your default setting and you’re driven by a deep sense of social justice. You are driven to see evidence lead to real world change. You are eager for an opportunity to lead, inspire, and progress an agenda for systemic change in the BSl space.

WHO ARE WE?

The Brotherhood of St Laurence Research and Policy Centre (RPC) explores the ways Australians are impacted by poverty and inequality. As the longest running and largest social policy research centre in a non-government community sector organisation in Australia, the RPC advances the BSl’s missions to promote systemic change through policy, research and evaluation activities. We have responsibility for seeding new approaches to social policy, programs and practice that help shape a better future for individuals, households and communities experiencing poverty, inequity and social exclusion. We currently have research teams that focus on Youth Opportunities (16-24 year olds), Work and Economic Security, Inclusive Communities, Early Childhood Education, and Energy and Climate Change.

WHAT’S THE OPPORTUNITY?

We are seeking a Deputy Director, Research and Policy Centre to play a pivotal leadership role in the day to day operations of the Research and Policy Centre, ensuring that the work of RPC aligns with the BSL strategy and policy agenda.

This role will work closely with a range of research and policy roles from multiple disciplinary backgrounds; therefore, the incumbent should have the ability to identify and build on distinct capabilities of each RPC division. Together with the RPC leadership team, the incumbent will also build a thriving centre that enables high quality work that advances the systemic change agenda of the organisation.

This is a permanent part-time position working 30.4 hours per week. Salary will be based on skills and experience with attractive salary packaging options.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Passion for supporting the mission of BSL, and delivering excellence in your role, are just the start.

To be considered for the role and be successful in it, we’re looking for an applicant who has the following key skills and experiences:

• Demonstrated leadership skills
• Highly developed project management and organisational skills, including the ability to manage staff, plan workload, manage budgets, prioritise and meet deadlines
• Relevant qualification with extensive relevant experience or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training
• Highly developed knowledge of Australian social policy and research environment, issues and processes
• Experience and knowledge of applied research operations and management
• Knowledge of relevant ethical research practices and codes
• Experience in income generation (Philanthropic, grants, etc), preferably in areas related to research, policy and advocacy

CULTURE

BSL employees enjoy a range of flexible work options and other attractive benefits. Recognising that there is no ‘one size fits all’ pattern of work–life balance, the organisation endeavours to provide options to suit the needs of all staff.

If this looks like a role that’s right for you, APPLY NOW or contact Shelley Mallett on 0438 022 985 for a confidential discussion.

To view the position description and address the Key Selection Criteria, please click here.

The Brotherhood of St Laurence adheres to Government mandates in relation to COVID-19.

We are an EEO and understand the importance of diversity and inclusion. We recognise that everyone has the right to an equitable, safe and productive environment and to be treated with dignity and respect.  We welcome applications from all people regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, cultural background, disability or sexual orientation. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.

Successful applicants will be subject to pre-employment checks including criminal history and working with children. Recruitment decisions are based on the key inherent needs and requirements of each role, and candidates are selected based on their unique strengths and characteristics.  Applicants must have proof of working rights in Australia.