Identified position - Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants only Full-time- Fix term with attractive salary Brisbane, QLD First People Recruitment Solutions (FPRS) is proud to partner with the newly established National Indigenous Science and Translation Centre (NISTC) to recruit its inaugural Chief Executive Officer (CEO). About NISTC NISTC is an Indigenous-led organisation dedicated to stimulating a vibrant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander entrepreneurial economy through the advancement, protection and commercialisation of Indigenous science and knowledge. Supported by government, industry and university partners, NISTC is building a national platform for knowledge translation, applied research, education and community innovation by combining traditional knowledge with modern practices while ensuring cultural integrity; securing Indigenous intellectual property and economic benefit remain in the hands of knowledge holders for the benefit of communities. The opportunity This is a rare foundation leadership role to establish, lead and grow Australia''s premier Indigenous-led science commercialisation organisation. You will lead NISTC through its start-up and scale-up phases, setting strategy, strengthening governance, building partnerships, ensuring financial sustainability, and delivering early milestones that position NISTC for national and global impact. Key responsibilities Provide strategic leadership and deliver NISTC''s establishment and growth roadmap Build fit-for-purpose governance, reporting, and operational systems aligned to NISTC''s vision Lead program delivery and partnerships across community, government, universities and industry Champion and apply strong cultural approaches to commercialisation, Indigenous IP, knowledge management and ethical innovation Secure and steward funding; oversee budgeting, reporting, risk and compliance Lead organisational culture, executive recruitment, and stakeholder engagement at a national level Work closely with the Board to translate strategic direction into delivery, ensuring timely, high-quality reporting, clear advice on risks and opportunities, and disciplined execution of Board-approved priorities in a manner consistent with NISTC''s Indigenous-led purpose, governance obligations, and funding commitments. What we''re looking for Essential Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent (identified role) Proven experience as a CEO/senior executive leading a complex start-up, social enterprise or innovation-driven organisation Deep respect for and experience working with traditional owners, knowledge holders and cultural authority Strong strategic, financial and governance capability Track record building high-trust relationships across community, government and industry Commitment to Indigenous data sovereignty, cultural safety and ethical innovation practices Highly desirable Knowledge of government grants, university research environments and national innovation ecosystems Experience managing national or multi-jurisdictional initiatives with strong reporting and compliance obligations Experience in commercialising scientific knowledge, IP licensing, and/or knowledge management frameworks Ability to work with established consultants with global expertise in philanthropic and capital raising Employment details Location: Brisbane, QLD (Long Pocket Campus, UQ) Employment: Full-time - Fix term 2 years initially and option to extend with performance review. Screening: Police check and probity clearance required Remuneration: Negotiable, commensurate with experience (indicative $250k-$300k + super) How to apply Submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability against the essential criteria. Applications close: 30/01/2026 Confidential enquiries: Shane Kennelly [email protected] NISTC is committed to cultural safety and creating a workplace where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and knowledges thrive. FIRST PEOPLE Recruitment Solutions is an Aboriginal owned agency providing contingent contracts, fixed term contracts and permanent recruitment solutions to Government and Corporate Australia. FIRST PEOPLE Recruitment Solutions acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures; and to elders past, present and emerging. Consultant [email protected] Reference number: 200004202 Profession:ExecutiveCEO/MD Company: First People Recruitment Solutions Date posted: 7th Jan, 2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr
Job Title
Chief Executive Officer