Job Title

Head of Community & Aquatic Programs The Head of Community & Aquatic Programs is a senior leadership position responsible for the development, delivery, and growth of SLSSA communityfocused initiatives including VACSWIM, Surf Babies, community water safety programs, and a diverse portfolio of inclusive and culturally focused deliverables. It drives innovation, builds and sustains strategic partnerships, and advocates for water safety and the aquatics industry across South Australia. With a strong emphasis on community impact, the role ensures programs evolve to meet the emerging needs of community groups and the aquatic industry, while advancing SLSSAs mission and strategic objectives. It drives sustainable growth, strengthens community engagement, and delivers measurable outcomes that enhance water safety participation statewide. Key Areas of Responsibility Program Operations Lead the planning, delivery, and evaluation of statewide programs, including VACSWIM, Surf Babies, Community Water Safety Sessions, CALD, Aboriginal and School Programs. Collaborate with providers and partners to ensure the successful delivery of programs. Drive yearonyear participation growth through datainformed decisions and targeted marketing. Oversee the recruitment and management of a seasonal workforce, ensuring qualifications, child safety, and WHS standards meet or exceed industry benchmarks. Lead and support a highperforming team of staff and volunteers, fostering a purposedriven culture aligned with SLSSAs values. Embed innovation and resilience in program delivery, including proactive risk management and program continuity plans. Anticipate emerging community needs and translate them into scalable, innovative solutions that align with SLSSAs strategic objectives. Lead the development of inclusive initiatives that meet the needs for atrisk populations including CALD, Aboriginal and remote communities. Drive codesigned program models that strengthen accessibility, relevance and value. Ensure VACSWIM and other SLSSA programs remain nationally recognised leaders in water safety education through continuous improvement and industry engagement. Position SLSSA as South Australias trusted peak authority on poolbased water safety, strengthening public confidence and industry credibility. Drive the ongoing evolution of industryfocused initiatives, including Watch Around Water and the SA Aquatics Conference, to ensure they remain relevant, innovative, and impactful. Advocate for aquatic industry priorities by fostering strategic partnerships, engaging in informed consultation, and applying evidencebased leadership at both state and national levels. Represent SLSSA on state and national committees, advisory panels, and working groups, shaping policy, guiding initiatives, and championing best practice across the industry. Other Secure and maintain grant and funding opportunities through strategic relationships with government, corporate, philanthropic, and other partners that support longterm program sustainability. Manage budgets for all community and aquatic programs, ensuring financial accountability and compliance with funding requirements. Deliver timely, accurate reports, evaluations, and acquittals to demonstrate impact and maintain stakeholder confidence. Undertake other duties as required to support SLSSAs strategic objectives. Team Performance Contribute to the overall success of the SLSSA team by promoting open and transparent communication, fostering mutual respect, and modelling the highest standards of integrity. Take a proactive leadership role in cultivating a positive, professional, and highperformance culture that inspires excellence across SLSSA. Deliver all responsibilities with a commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring programs, processes, and outcomes consistently evolve to meet organisational and community needs. Skills, Experience and Qualifications Proven track record in leading and managing successful community-focused programs. A dynamic, respected leader with a demonstrated history of growth, innovation, and organisational success. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage, influence, and inspire diverse stakeholders. A passion for making a meaningful difference in the community, backed by demonstrated achievements in community impact initiatives. Prior experience and knowledge of the VACSWIM Program. Understanding of and experience in the aquatics industry. Qualifications A relevant tertiary qualification in education, community development, sport, or recreation is desirable but not essential. Personal Attributes Leads with authenticity, integrity, and a willingness to model SLSSAs values in all actions and decisions. Demonstrates vision, drive, and initiative in delivering organisational strategic objectives. Highly motivated and enthusiastic, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively to maximise outcomes. Thrives under pressure, maintaining strong attention to detail while managing multiple priorities with composure and effectiveness. Hours of Work The position is fulltime, with standard hours from 9:00am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday, and includes some afterhours and weekend work during peak periods. Key time commitments include: December & January: Some weekend and public holiday work will be required. Adjusted hours will also apply on VACSWIM delivery days. Program Activations & Staff Induction Days: Occasional weekend work or extended hours. Special Requirements The successful applicant must understand and comply with SLSSAs and SLSAs Child Safe Policies and practices. Must satisfy the requirements of a Working with Childrens Check and National Police Check and have a current drivers licence. There may be further requirements for the successful applicant to be trained and educated in other relevant areas to ensure the appropriate leadership and skills. Position Description Visit www.surflifesavingsa.com.au/careers to view the full position description. Please note that applications submitted via Seek will not be considered. Brief enquiries may be made to Damien Marangon on 08 8354 6900 . Applications close 5:00pm Wednesday 4 March 2026 . #J-18808-Ljbffr