What if your next role wasn't just a job — but a calling?

Open House is a faith-based community organisation with a simple but profound mission: to create a place to belong. For decades, we have walked alongside children, young people, and adults who face disadvantage and social isolation - offering long-term friendship, practical support, and genuine connection.

As our CEO prepares to transition, we are seeking an exceptional leader to carry this mission forward, someone who combines strategic vision with a deep, relational heart.

ABOUT OPEN HOUSE

Open House is grounded in the belief that every person is unique and loved, and that community is one of the most powerful forces for change. Guided by our Strategic Plan 2024–2029, we deliver creative programs and activities for all ages, built around the power of long-term friendship and belonging. We are a Christian organisation, and our values of respect, dignity, and unconditional support shape everything we do.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO provides strategic, operational, and pastoral leadership to Open House. This is a rare opportunity for a values-driven leader to shape the next chapter of the organisation.

You will lead a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, oversee our programs and finances, and represent Open House across churches, government, and the broader community. Above all, you will be a champion of our mission, holding the vision with both courage and care.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Develop and implement strategic direction in partnership with the Board
• Translate vision and values into programs that deliver measurable community impact
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement across all areas of the organisation
• Oversee all operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and alignment with the friendship model

Financial Sustainability & Growth

• Lead fundraising, donor engagement, and revenue generation
• Secure and manage grants, funding contracts, and strategic partnerships
• Ensure sound financial management, budgeting, and reporting

People & Pastoral Leadership

• Inspire, mentor, and develop staff and volunteers
• Foster a positive, mission-driven culture grounded in Christian values
• Provide pastoral care and support to the team and broader community

Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy

• Build and maintain relationships with churches, government, partners, and donors
• Champion Open House's mission and impact in the community
• Lead communication strategies including media and public relations

Governance & Compliance

• Support the Board in fulfilling governance and strategic responsibilities
• Ensure robust risk management, compliance, and accountability frameworks
• Maintain all policies, systems, and regulatory requirements including but not limited to child safety obligations

WHAT YOU WILL BRING

Essential Experience & Skills

• Demonstrated senior leadership, ideally in the not-for-profit or community services sector
• Strong strategic thinking combined with practical operational management capability
• Sound financial management experience including budget oversight and Board reporting
• Proven success in fundraising, government grant management, and revenue generation
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Ability to translate vision into tangible outcomes
• Working knowledge of child safety legislation and safeguarding obligations

Personal Attributes

• Authentic Christian faith and genuine alignment with Open House values
• Deep compassion and commitment to people experiencing disadvantage
• High integrity, accountability, and relational leadership style
• Resilience, adaptability, and collaborative spirit

Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualifications
• Current Police Check and Working with Children Check (or willingness to obtain)

WHY OPEN HOUSE?

This is more than a leadership role. It is an opportunity to build a life's work around what matters most - people, community, and belonging. You will join an organisation with decades of trust, a passionate team, and a Board committed to supporting the next CEO through a thoughtful transition and strong onboarding.

next steps

We welcome applications from candidates whose experience and values align with the Open House mission, and we encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply.

To apply, please click 'Apply Now' and submit:

• A cover letter addressing the key selection criteria
• Your current resume / CV

More information on Open House can be found at https://www.ohcic.org.au

A position description is attached.