Bush Heritage Australia are seeking a Gifts in Wills Program Manager to join the Engagement Team.

This is an exceptional opportunity to make a very real contribution to the protection of Australia’s unique wildlife and their habitat.

• Fantastic opportunity to work within a leading conservation organisation
• Location Melbourne or Sydney preferred
• $106,152 - $129,741 plus 11.5% super
• Full time, 2-year fixed term contract

About us

For over 30 years we’ve supported and protected some of the most fragile ecosystems across the continent and seen the impact of our science-based approach. We keep our eyes on the horizon and focus firmly on long-term, landscape scale impact. As a national, not-for-profit, we want to continue to expand the areas we protect and deepen the impact we have. We work in partnership with Traditional Owners, listening to and learning from the customs and cultures that came before us.

Together we can heal and protect the bush, now and into the future.

About the role

Bush Heritage Australia is a national conservation organisation, grounded in care for country and people, and we're looking for a compassionate and strategic leader to grow and guide our Gifts in Wills (GIW) program. This vital role is responsible for one of our most important revenue streams, overseeing everything from supporter engagement and stewardship to estate administration and financial management. You’ll join a values-led organisation committed to long-term conservation, working with a dedicated team to inspire legacy giving that protects nature forever.

As Gifts in Wills Program Manager, you’ll lead a small team and collaborate across the Engagement Team and broader organisation. You’ll design and deliver a strategic, ethical, and effective GIW program that honours donor intent while supporting organisational goals. You’ll need experience in bequest fundraising or estate management, excellent communication and stakeholder skills, and a calm, professional presence, especially when supporting supporters through sensitive conversations and decisions.

We’re seeking someone who is values-driven, detail-focused, and inspired by the lasting impact of legacy giving. At Bush Heritage, you’ll find a kind, respectful, and hopeful workplace where your work is genuinely meaningful. If you’re ready to contribute to protecting nature for generations to come, we’d love to hear from you.

Download Position Description

What you'll need to succeed

• Proven experience in Gifts in Wills, fundraising, philanthropy, or estate administration.
• Strong understanding of wills, estates, and bequest fundraising best practices, including experience in managing complex estates.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic fundraising plans.
• Experience in budget management and financial reporting.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage donors, legal professionals, and stakeholders with sensitivity and professionalism.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including donor communications and formal correspondence with executors/legal representatives.
• High level of attention to detail and proficiency in CRM/donor database management, the Microsoft suite and other key systems
• Strong leadership skills and high levels of emotional resilience when dealing with recently bereaved
• Ability to work to deadlines and have the ability to prioritise effectively, with well-developed organisational and planning skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team to achieve goals.

What sets us apart

• Great life-work balance: flexible work arrangements with hybrid working.
• Access to 20 days personal leave per year, 10 of these available from commencement of employment. We also offer cultural leave and gender transition leave.
• Employee Resource Groups for women, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent employees as well as a social group for bird lovers.
• Professional development activities including access to LinkedIn Learning.
• Equitable 12 weeks paid leave to all parents, irrespective of their role as primary or secondary carers.
• Remote staff are supported through an education allowance for kids and additional annual leave.
• Access to support and counselling via our Employee Assistance Program and free access to Headspace app.
• Melbourne office in docklands with state-of-the-art facilities and gym.

How to apply

To apply for this role, simply fill in your personal details and answer the questions below. You will then be taken to a page to upload a copy of your CV. There is no need to attach a cover letter or separate document answering key selection criteria. Candidates who are interested in the position are encouraged to apply even though they may feel they are not strong on individual selection criteria. In assessing merit, the panel will take into consideration “performance or achievement relative to opportunity”. We recognise that many staff today have a range of personal circumstances, and career histories.

If you require further information, please contact Vibeke Stisen (Executive Manager Engagement) on [email protected] using the subject line: Gifts in Wills Program Manager - Melbourne / Sydney enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Bush Heritage Australia does not discriminate based on race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital or parental status. Should you require a reasonable adjustment to be made for your application we would be more than happy to discuss how this could be arranged.

Evidence shows that applicants from underrepresented backgrounds often don't apply for roles if they don't feel they meet all the requirements of the job – unlike candidates from majority backgrounds who might fulfil less requirements.

We strongly encourage you to apply if you’re interested: we strive to build more diverse teams with your unique experience!

Don't miss out! Apply now!