Job Title

Identified position - Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants onlyFull-time- Fix term with attractive salaryBrisbane, QLDFirst 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 NISTCNISTC 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 opportunityThis 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 responsibilitiesProvide strategic leadership and deliver NISTC''s establishment and growth roadmapBuild fit-for-purpose governance, reporting, and operational systems aligned to NISTC''s visionLead program delivery and partnerships across community, government, universities and industryChampion and apply strong cultural approaches to commercialisation, Indigenous IP, knowledge management and ethical innovationSecure and steward funding; oversee budgeting, reporting, risk and complianceLead organisational culture, executive recruitment, and stakeholder engagement at a national levelWork 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 forEssentialAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent (identified role)Proven experience as a CEO/senior executive leading a complex start-up, social enterprise or innovation-driven organisationDeep respect for and experience working with traditional owners, knowledge holders and cultural authorityStrong strategic, financial and governance capabilityTrack record building high-trust relationships across community, government and industryCommitment to Indigenous data sovereignty, cultural safety and ethical innovation practicesHighly desirableKnowledge of government grants, university research environments and national innovation ecosystemsExperience managing national or multi-jurisdictional initiatives with strong reporting and compliance obligationsExperience in commercialising scientific knowledge, IP licensing, and/or knowledge management frameworksAbility to work with established consultants with global expertise in philanthropic and capital raisingEmployment detailsLocation: 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 requiredRemuneration: Negotiable, commensurate with experience (indicative $250k-$300k + super)How to applySubmit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability against the essential criteria.Applications close: 30/01/2026Confidential enquiries: Shane Kennelly [email protected] 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 [email protected] number: 200004202Profession:ExecutiveCEO/MDCompany: First People Recruitment SolutionsDate posted: 7th Jan, 2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr