• Shape drug and alcohol policy
• Leading AOD sector peak body
• High profile leadership position based in Melbourne

VAADA’s purpose is to ensure that the issues for people experiencing the harms associated with AOD use and the organisations that support them are well represented in policy and program development and public discussion. VAADA has developed an enviable reputation as one of the leading and most credible advocacy organisations in Victoria to highlight the issues and advocate for systemic reform in the AOD sector.

Reporting to an engaged Board, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will lead a talented and committed team to represent and deliver campaigns and policy and funding submissions advocating for strategic, high-impact policy change that promotes and positions drug and alcohol services at the centre of government thinking. With ambitious plans to increase the impact and influence of their work, the CEO will lead the organisation in articulating member issues, promoting service design responses that reflect the needs of people with a lived experience of drug and alcohol use, whilst providing evidence-based solutions for key reforms.

The CEO will strengthen VAADA's standing as an accountable and credible voice for the AOD sector, whilst ensuring that the organisation culture of collaboration and respect is one that promotes wellbeing, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

This is a role for a highly experienced policy thinker and values-driven organisational leader, with a track record of impact, innovation and delivery, and a deep understanding of the health sector.

To be considered, you’ll need to have a range of skills and experience including:

• Demonstrated ability to understand, develop, analyse and evaluate policy related to AOD;
• Confident representing VAADA as the 'face and voice' of the organisation to a wide audience;
• Strong understanding and experience of the health services sector, ideally as a well-known and credible 'thought leader';
• Sophisticated and strategic engagement skills with an ability to elevate VAADA's agenda in a crowded health advocacy ecosystem;
• Understanding of Government, funding opportunities and approaches to advocacy for impact;
• Agility, strong conceptual skills and an ability to identify emerging issues relevant to the VAADA members and the sector;
• Contemporary leadership and organisation management skills, and an ability to engage and inspire others.

This is an exciting challenge for the right person. With a strong Board and organisational culture, the Chief Executive Officer will be required to engage with and strengthen existing stakeholder and member relationships as the 'face and voice' of VAADA whilst seeking further opportunities to engage and promote AOD sector issues. Naturally, the new Chief Executive will be values-aligned and have the skills to build trust and work constructively with the Board.

With a collaborative style and sophisticated communication and influencing skills, you’ll be equally as comfortable being a strategic leader and operationally hands-on, leading from the front whilst supporting and developing the team. You must be passionate, persistent and resilient in advocating for the AOD sector with well-developed political acuity.

For further information about the role and VAADA, and instructions on how to apply download an Information Pack from: https://searchlightgroup.com.au/careers/chief-executive-officer-vaada.

After reading the Information Pack, contact Michael Holdway, Searchlight Group with any further questions on (03) 9600 1137 or 0400 006 513 e: [email protected] using the subject line: Chief Executive Officer - VAADA enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.