Full-Time Position| Watanobbi, NSW | Competitive Salary (FBT component)

This is an identified position and is only open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

About the organisation

Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) is one of the largest Aboriginal landholding organisations in New South Wales and the largest non‑government landholder on the Central Coast. Established under the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983, Darkinjung exists to advance the social, cultural, environmental and economic wellbeing of its members and community.

As the steward of significant Aboriginal land and assets, Darkinjung is committed to achieving self‑determination, economic independence and intergenerational prosperity for current and future generations. The organisation’s work is guided by four strategic pillars that focus on strengthening community participation and wellbeing, protecting culture, heritage and Country, ensuring strong governance and operational excellence, and driving business growth and economic development.

DLALC is currently delivering an endorsed Development Delivery Plan across multiple strategic sites, alongside a Conservation Strategy designed to balance cultural, environmental and economic outcomes. These initiatives aim to generate sustainable revenue streams, protect and honour Country, and build long‑term prosperity for the Darkinjung community.

About the role

As Chief Executive Officer, you will provide strategic leadership, organisational management and executive oversight to ensure Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council delivers on its vision, obligations and long‑term aspirations under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983. You will work closely with the Board to implement the Community Land and Business Plan, drive economic development opportunities, strengthen governance systems and lead transformational change across the organisation. In this role, you will shape strategic direction, identify emerging risks and opportunities, and ensure that community aspirations remain central to all planning and decision‑making.

You will also be responsible for building a high‑performing, culturally safe organisation that delivers lasting social, cultural, environmental and economic outcomes for the Darkinjung community. You will lead the implementation of the Development Delivery Plan, grow Darkinjung’s land, property and investment portfolio, and establish strong partnerships with government, industry, investors and Aboriginal organisations. As CEO, you will be a visible and trusted presence within the community, fostering respectful relationships, promoting culture and heritage, and ensuring the organisation operates with transparency, accountability and excellence.

For a full list of responsibilities for the above role, please contact Pipeline Talent via [email protected] using the subject line: Chief Executive Officer - Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council - Watanobbi enquiry via EthicalJobs.

About you

You are a culturally grounded Aboriginal leader with strong community credibility, strategic vision and the commercial capability to grow one of the most significant land portfolios in NSW. You bring resilience, clarity and long‑term commitment, with the ability to balance governance and operations, modernise systems, mentor staff and lead with cultural integrity.

You build trust easily, navigate complex relationships, and aren’t afraid of challenging conversations when they serve the community’s best interests. Most importantly, you are ready to relocate to Darkinjung Country, become part of the local community and lead an organisation with substantial influence, opportunity and responsibility.

Selection Criteria

1. Aboriginal cultural leadership and credibility, with a strong understanding of the NSW Land Rights movement.
2. Executive leadership capability, including strategic thinking and commercial acumen across land, property or investment portfolios.
3. Governance and compliance strength, with experience working effectively with a Board.
4. People leadership within a cultural framework, including mentoring staff and building organisational capability.
5. Exceptional stakeholder and relationship‑building skills, with confidence navigating complex or challenging conversations.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to lead one of the most influential and well‑resourced Aboriginal Land Councils in NSW.
• Salary sacrifice/ packaging options (FBT)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP – a free counselling service for you and your family).
• Strong Board support and a mandate for modernisation, growth and transformational change

How to Apply

Your application should include:

• A current resume.
• A cover letter responding to the selection criteria and outlining your suitability for the position.

Applications are to be submitted via the Pipeline Talent website through the Apply Now link.

How to get more information

For further information on the position, please contact the team at Pipeline Talent.

Dave Collins

Director, Recruitment

E: [email protected] |[email protected] using the subject line: Chief Executive Officer - Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council - Watanobbi enquiry via EthicalJobs.

PH: 02 8001 6603