Lead an iconic wildlife conservation organisation.

For more than 35 years, Friends of the Koala has been rescuing, rehabilitating and protecting koalas across the Northern Rivers of New South Wales.

With more than 200 dedicated volunteers, a specialised Koala Hospital, extensive habitat restoration programs, rescue and rehabilitation services, community education initiatives and advocacy activities, Friends of the Koala is one of Australia's leading wildlife conservation organisations.

We are seeking an experienced, collaborative and values-driven General Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of the organisation and help shape the next chapter of our impact.

About the role

Reporting to the Management Committee, the General Manager is responsible for the overall operational leadership of Friends of the Koala.

Working closely with employees, volunteers, contractors and volunteer program leaders, you will ensure the organisation operates effectively, safely and sustainably while supporting the delivery of our strategic objectives.

This is a diverse role that combines leadership, governance support, operational management, people leadership, financial oversight and stakeholder engagement.

The role also serves as a visible ambassador for Friends of the Koala, helping build community awareness, stakeholder relationships and support for the organisation's mission.

You will play a key role in ensuring our people, systems, facilities and programs work together to support the conservation and care of koalas across the Northern Rivers region.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of Friends of the Koala
• Support implementation of Management Committee decisions and strategic priorities
• Provide leadership and support to employees, contractors and volunteer leaders
• Foster a positive, respectful and values-aligned culture
• Oversee organisational compliance, governance support and risk management
• Monitor budgets, expenditure and operational performance
• Ensure effective management of facilities, assets, systems and infrastructure
• Build strong relationships with volunteers, government agencies, partner organisations, members, donors and community stakeholders
• Represent Friends of the Koala at community events, stakeholder meetings, public presentations and, where appropriate, media engagements to help raise awareness of the organisation's work and impact
• Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes and organisational performance

About you

You are a capable and collaborative leader who enjoys building strong relationships and creating practical solutions.

You bring:

• Experience in a senior management, operations management or organisational leadership role
• Demonstrated experience leading people and managing organisational operations
• Strong communication, stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills
• Confidence representing an organisation publicly, including presenting to stakeholders, engaging with community groups and participating in media opportunities
• Experience supporting governance processes and working with Boards or Management Committees
• Financial management and budgeting experience
• Strong organisational, planning and problem-solving skills
• The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational leadership
• A commitment to building positive workplace culture and supporting teams to succeed

Experience within the not-for-profit, environmental, conservation, community or volunteer sectors will be highly regarded.

While wildlife experience is welcomed, we recognise that successful candidates may come from a broad range of sectors where volunteer engagement, community impact and operational leadership are central to success.

Why join Friends of the Koala?

This is an opportunity to lead one of Australia's most respected wildlife conservation organisations and make a tangible contribution to the protection of koalas and their habitat.

You will have the opportunity to:

• Make a direct impact on wildlife conservation outcomes
• Lead a purpose-driven organisation with a long and respected history
• Work alongside passionate volunteers, wildlife professionals and community leaders
• Influence the future direction and sustainability of the organisation
• Contribute to the protection of one of Australia's most iconic species