Job Title

Longreach, Queensland (Relocation support provided) 3-year fixed term (possible extension) Protecting the Lake Eyre Basin for Future Generations The Company Our Client, Desert Channels Group, (DCQ) is the leading natural resource management body for the Queensland section of the Lake Eyre Basin. Its mission is clear: to safeguard and enhance the soil, water, pastures, and biodiversity that make this region unique. Working in partnership with landholders, graziers, local councils, Traditional Owners, and communities, the organisation delivers projects that create lasting impact across 51 million hectares of Southern and Central West Queensland. The Role Desert Channels Queensland (DCQ), part of DCG has reached an exciting stage in its growth, which in turn has created an opportunity for the next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to evolve and further increase the capability and scale of impact. With a community first and people lead approach, the CEO plays a key role in leading a dedicated team to deliver on the 2030 strategic priorities of strong leadership, partnerships and relationships, improved resilience of landscape, community engagement, and a skilled, connected and empowered workforce. The role is a 3-year contract with possible extension, commencing in April or May 2026 (depending on notice period). The position is required to be based in Longreach given the presence is essential for leading the organisation effectively, engaging with local stakeholders, and maintaining a strong connection to the regions landscapes and communities. Frequent travel across the Desert Channels region to meet with government agencies, funders, and key partners will be required. This may require planned time away from home, often involving travel over long distances, including through remote and rural areas. Key Roles & Responsibilities As CEO of DCQ, you will lead a dynamic natural resource management organisation responsible for the Queensland section of the Lake Eyre Basin. This role involves: Providing strategic leadership and working closely with the Board to set future direction. Managing a team of 21 full-time and 2 part-time staff, along with contractors. Overseeing an annual budget of $8M$9M and ensuring financial sustainability. Driving program delivery across 51 million hectares of outback country, including initiatives in soil, water, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture. Building strong partnerships with landholders, Traditional Owners, government agencies, and community stakeholders. Representing DCQ as an ambassador in public forums, media, and networks. Ensuring compliance with governance standards and organisational policies. About You You are a strategic, values-driven community focused leader with a genuine passion for sustainable landscapes and resilient communities. You align with DCQs mission to protect and enhance the Queensland section of the Lake Eyre Basin for future generations. Collaboration is at the heart of your approach, you build strong partnerships with landholders, Traditional Owners, government, and community stakeholders. Additionally, you thrive on leading change, inspiring teams, and delivering practical solutions that balance environmental stewardship with economic and social outcomes. Required Skills & Proficiencies To succeed in this role, you will bring: Strategic Thinking: ability to think creatively and holistically, identify opportunities for growth and diversification, and build strategic alliances that align with DCQs long-term vision and strategic plan. Charismatic and Inclusive Leadership: strong ability to inspire and motivate geographically dispersed teams, while fostering a positive organisational culture that values equity, diversity, and inclusion. Governance Capability: including corporate governance, compliance, and risk management, with a proven track record of building transparent and collaborative working relationships with Board members. Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Management: extensive experience in stakeholder mapping and maintaining partnerships with landholders, Traditional Owners, government agencies, investors, contractors, and local communities. Natural Resource Management Expertise: ideally with deep experience in NRM, agriculture, or related fields. A strong practical understanding of current environmental and sustainability frameworks (e.g. ESG, natural capital accounting, Net Zero strategies) is essential. Accountability and Operational Oversight: experience in managing human, financial, and physical resources, along with strategic planning and organisational performance monitoring. Advocacy and Brand Management: capability to serve as a compelling ambassador for DCQ. This includes representing the organisation in public forums, media, and across networks, while maintaining DCQs reputation and securing stakeholder confidence. Innovation and Adaptability: a proactive mindset that embraces change, technological innovation, and an ability to develop new models for funding, service delivery, and environmental impact. Financial Acumen: demonstrated ability to manage complex budgets, deliver financial sustainability, and attract diversified funding from government, private sector, and philanthropic sources. Additional Requirements Relevant qualifications in Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or related fields are essential. Postgraduate business or management qualifications will be highly regarded. The successful applicant will also be expected to demonstrate knowledge or the ability to quickly acquire an understanding of: Contemporary natural resource management issues relevant to the Desert Channels region The operational and environmental challenges specific to remote, arid, and semi-arid landscapes Indigenous land management practices, cultural awareness, and respectful engagement with Traditional Owners Travel within the region will include driving on unsealed roads and in remote environments, hence. experience in four-wheel driving would be an advantage. Rewards & Culture For those passionate about environmental sustainability, rural communities, and land stewardship, the opportunity to be the next CEO for Desert Channels Group in Longreach offers both a meaningful professional challenge and a fulfilling lifestyle in a close-knit outback setting. Relocating to Longreach offers the opportunity to live and work at the heart of one of Australias most iconic and ecologically important regions. With a strong sense of community, rich cultural heritage, and a landscape unlike anywhere else, Longreach provides an exceptional lifestyle for individuals and families alike. Some of the additional key benefits include: Relocation and rental accommodation support (tailored to individual needs) 5 weeks annual leave 12.75% super, remote area tax concessions and salary sacrifice options 4WD vehicle provided for work travel and personal use How to Apply Apply now by submitting your current CV and cover letter (in Word format) via our online application process. For a confidential discussion or to review the information pack and full PD please contact Claire Black on 0407 821 086 or via [email protected] To be eligible to apply, you must have unrestricted rights to work in Australia. Talent Nation encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people of all cultures, abilities, sex, and genders. Applicants can request a reasonable adjustment at any stage during the recruitment process, please contact us so we can provide adjustments for you. Holiday Closure Notice Please note that Talent Nation will be closed from Monday, December 22, 2025, through Friday, January 2, 2026. Our office will reopen on Monday, January 5, 2026. Applications are welcome during this period and will be reviewed upon our return. We will respond to all submissions from January 5, 2026, onward. We look forward to connecting with you in the new year. #acceleratingimpact#nrmjobs #sustainabilityjobs #J-18808-Ljbffr