Job Title

Lead the next chapter of reform - building on a strong foundation of credibility, evidence and sector trust . PeakCare is Queenslands peak body for child and family services. Our role is clear: to elevate the voices of our members, champion what works, and influence a system where children are safe, families are supported, and accountability is real. Queensland is entering a defining period for child and family services. A Commission of Inquiry into child safety is underway. Public expectations are high. The system is under scrutiny. And the need for steady, principled leadership - grounded in evidence, truth and lived experience - has never been greater. OnTalent is proud to partner with PeakCares Board to appoint our next Chief Executive Officer: a leader who can honour the strength of PeakCares leading voice while guiding an ambitious, constructive agenda for system improvement. The opportunity This is a role for a CEO who can lead with clarity in complexity and with hope in hard conversations. You will steward PeakCares public voice and strategic influence at a time when the sector needs both confidence and care. Building on established credibility and relationships, you will help shape reforms that strengthen child safety and family wellbeing through measured advocacy, practical solutions, and respectful partnership. As CEO, you will work at the intersection of policy, practice and lived experience, supporting a diverse membership, engaging constructively with government and stakeholders, and ensuring the sectors expertise is heard, understood and acted on. This is not about commentary. It is about impact. What you will lead Reporting to the Board through the Chair, you will be accountable for PeakCares strategy, performance, culture and public standing. Your remit includes: Strengthening PeakCares position as Queenslands authoritative, independent and trusted voice for non-government child and family services Leading evidence-informed sector advocacy during a significant reform period emerging from the Commission of Inquiry Representing the sector with credibility in media, public forums and high-level government engagement Deepening relationships and influence across government, the community sector, peak bodies, member organisations and community leaders Ensuring strong governance and sustainability through financial stewardship, risk oversight and organisational effectiveness Leading a skilled and committed team through change with purpose, transparency and care Advancing culturally informed reform, including a demonstrated commitment to partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders and organisations, and to addressing the disproportionate representation of First Nations children in the child safety system The leader we are seeking This role will suit an accomplished senior executive who is both strategic and grounded, able to hold nuance, navigate competing perspectives, and keep children and families at the centre of decisions. You will bring: Significant executive leadership experience in community services, human services, social policy, or adjacent systems Strong understanding of Queenslands child protection, family support and community services landscape Proven capability to lead under public scrutiny and to engage confidently with media, government and diverse stakeholders A track record of responsible advocacy, listening carefully, speaking clearly, and building trust across difference Strong governance, financial and organisational leadership capability in a non-profit or member-based context A values-driven approach grounded in evidence, integrity, respect and accountability Formal qualifications in social work, social sciences, business or public policy are required; postgraduate qualifications are desirable. Why PeakCare PeakCare is a principled, independent organisation with a clear purpose and a strong platform to build from. We are respected for integrity, evidence-based advocacy and a commitment to inclusive, culturally informed practice. You will join an engaged and experienced Board that values thoughtful, well-prepared executive leadership, and a committed team with deep sector knowledge and relationships. PeakCare offers flexible working arrangements, a competitive executive remuneration package, and the opportunity to lead work that genuinely matters to Queensland children and families. A defining leadership role This is a role for a leader who understands that meaningful reform is built through credibility, collective trust and practical action, especially when the spotlight is bright. If you are motivated by system change that improves the safety and wellbeing of children and families, and you are ready to lead with conviction and care, we welcome a confidential conversation. For a confidential discussion, please contact Chris Dougherty or Jevon Seah on (07) 3305 5800 Applications close Sunday 8 February 2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr