The Asylum Seekers Centre (ASC) is seeking an inspiring, strategic, and compassionate leader to step into the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Based in Newtown, this is a rare opportunity to lead a highly respected, mission-driven organisation, providing life-changing and impactful support to people seeking asylum in Australia.

About Us

Since 1993, the Asylum Seekers Centre has been a place of welcome and practical support for people living in our community while they seek asylum. With a dedicated team of professional staff, volunteers and partners, ASC delivers a range of critical services across Greater Sydney - including housing support, employment assistance, legal advice, health services, education, and social connection programs.

The Role

The CEO leads the ASC with vision and heart — ensuring our services, advocacy, and operations remain aligned to our mission and values. Reporting to the Board, you will drive strategy, financial sustainability, stakeholder engagement, and inspire a passionate team of professionals and volunteers.

Key responsibilities include:

• Implementing the strategic plan that provides services and advocacy for people seeking asylum
• Providing strategic leadership, and driving operational excellence and organisational performance, across all areas of ASC
• Advocating for the rights and dignity of people seeking asylum, with a trauma-informed and culturally competent approach
• Building strong relationships with government, corporate, philanthropic, media, and community partners
• Leading fundraising, grant acquisition, and donor engagement strategies
• Representing ASC publicly with gravitas, empathy, and authority
• Overseeing the financial health and long -term sustainable growth of the organisation

About You

You are a proven leader with a deep commitment to human rights, social justice. You have lived experience or are open to learning from people with lived experiences of seeking asylum and providing services to help people thrive in communities. Your ability to foster compassionate, high-performing teams is matched by your commercial acumen and appreciation of effective delivery of services.

You will bring

• Extensive leadership experience in the not-for-profit sector, advocacy organisations, or lived experience advocacy
• A track record of successful stakeholder engagement and fundraising
• Strong public presence, media experience, and ability to influence policy and public debate
• Experience managing complex operations and driving strategic initiatives
• A deep commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and trauma-informed practice
• Lived experience as a refugee or person seeking asylum is highly valued and warmly welcomed

Why Join Us?

At ASC, you’ll be part of a community that lives its values of welcome, dignity, and respect. You will have the platform to lead change, influence systems, and work every day towards a more just and compassionate Australia, whilst leading an excellent skilled team.

You’ll lead a highly respected organisation that lives its values of welcome, dignity and respect and improves lives every day.

Other Information

• This role requires a NSW Working with Children Check (paid work) and adherence to ASC’s Code of Conduct, policies and procedures.
• Location: Newtown, NSW. Some travel within Greater Sydney and occasional interstate travel may be required.

How to Apply

Click "Apply Now" and submit your CV and a Cover Letter outlining your motivation and suitability for this role. For a confidential discussion, please contact:

Simon Tobin

0414 630 158

[email protected] using the subject line: Chief Executive Officer - Asylum Seekers Centre enquiry via EthicalJobs, or 

Anna Hall

0407 221 934

[email protected]