Current Opportunities

Chief Executive Officer – Victorian National Parks Association 

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Hybrid | Full-time | Permanent contract 

About the job 

Lead an independent conservation organisation through its next phase and help protect Victoria’s natural places, wildlife and ecological systems. 

The Victorian National Parks Association is an independent, membership-based charity that has helped protect Victoria’s national parks, protected areas, special places and wildlife for more than 70 years. 

VNPA advocates for evidence-based policy, connects people with nature, and works with members, volunteers, First Nations, community partners, scientists, government and supporters to secure lasting outcomes for nature. 

We are seeking a Chief Executive Officer to provide strategic, organisational and public leadership as VNPA refreshes its strategy, strengthens organisational capacity, diversifies income, deepens community engagement and continues effective advocacy for nature protection across Victoria. 

We are after a candidate who views this as a long-term leadership position for the organisation. Building respectful and trusting internal and external relationships takes time and is essential to be able to achieve our vision.

The opportunity 

As CEO, you will: 

  • Lead VNPA’s strategy, campaigns, public advocacy, policy influence and communications, aligned with Board-approved priorities and VNPA’s independent conservation purpose. 
  • Work constructively with government, public agencies, First Nations, conservation partners, scientists, members, supporters, donors and community advocates while protecting VNPA’s independence and credibility. 
  • Strengthen VNPA’s financial sustainability by developing revenue pathways across membership, supporters, donors, bequests, philanthropy, grants and partnerships. 
  • Build a clear, accountable and values-aligned organisation where staff and volunteers can contribute safely and effectively. 
  • Provide sound financial, governance, compliance and risk leadership, including clear reporting and disciplined advice to the Board. 
  • Act as a credible public representative for VNPA and a trusted conservation leader across Victoria. 

This is a role for someone who can hold both advocacy and stewardship. You will need the judgement to influence in contested public policy environments while maintaining trust, evidence, independence and long-term purpose. 

About you 

You are a senior leader with environmental campaign credibility, public policy judgement and a deep commitment to nature conservation. 

You may come from a conservation, environmental, advocacy, public policy, member-based, philanthropic, public-sector or not-for-profit background. 

You bring: 

  • Senior leadership experience in a relevant mission-driven organisation. 
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Victorian environmental or conservation policy, such as public land management, biodiversity, planning, national parks, marine protection, forestry transition, fire and ecological management, invasive species or related areas. 
  • The ability to translate complex environmental, policy and scientific issues for different audiences. 
  • Organisational, financial, people and partnership leadership, including income diversification, fundraising and stakeholder coalition-building. 
  • Experience working with Boards, Councils or governance bodies, with sound understanding of governance, risk, compliance, accountability and decision-making. 

You will be principled, politically astute, calm under pressure and able to work effectively with campaigners, members, public-sector decision-makers, donors, conservation partners and community advocates without being partisan. 

Established Victorian conservation, public-sector, philanthropic, scientific or community networks will be well regarded. Experience with member-based organisations, supporter mobilisation, digital advocacy, First Nation relationships, philanthropy, major donors or organisational renewal will also be advantageous. 

Employment details 

Location: Melbourne-based, with hybrid working arrangements
Employment basis: Full-time, Permanent Contract
Remuneration: Base Salary $160,000 plus superannuation, commensurate with the candidate’s skills and experience 
Travel: Victorian travel is expected; occasional interstate travel may be required
Out-of-hours commitments: Some evening and weekend commitments will be required for Board and committee meetings, stakeholder engagement, public events, member activities and campaign needs. 

How to apply 

Click here for the full Position Description.

To apply, head to Ethical Jobs by clicking here.

For confidential enquiries, please contact: Marilyne Crestias, VNPA President  

Email: [email protected] 

Applications close: Midnight, Sunday 13 September 2026 

 

Careers at VNPA

The Victorian National Parks Association is an effective and influential nature conservation organisation. We work with local communities, scientists and government to advocate for evidence-based policy to safeguard wildlife, habitat and protected areas. We inspire connections with nature through citizen science, activities, action and education for all Victorians. We’ve led the creation, oversight and defence of Victoria’s natural estate for over 70 years.

Why Work With Us?

  • Make a Difference
    Your work will contribute directly to protecting the integrity and future of Victoria’s grasslands, forests, rivers, and wildlife in a changing world.
  • Supportive Community
    Our team is collaborative, inclusive, and united by a shared vision for nature conservation. We value diverse perspectives and foster a workplace where everyone can thrive.
  • Professional Growth
    VNPA encourages continuous learning and development. We provide opportunities to expand your skills, take on meaningful projects, and grow in your career.
  • Connection to Nature
    From fieldwork in  protected areas to engaging with like-minded supporters, working with VNPA means staying closely connected to the natural beauty of Victoria.

Our Values

We aim to create lasting change through advocacy, community empowerment, and scientific expertise.

A Commitment to Inclusion

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are valued and empowered. VNPA is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.

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Together, we can protect Victoria’s natural heritage for the future.