Non Executive Director

About the Australasian College of Paramedicine

The Australasian College of Paramedicine (ACP) stands as the leading professional association for paramedics and student paramedics in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. The College advocates for a skilled, well-supported, and sustainably funded paramedicine workforce fully embedded in the broader healthcare system to deliver person-centred care.

Paramedics, recognized as a registered health profession, provide high-quality healthcare in diverse settings, ranging from metropolitan to remote locations. They offer critical care, manage complex medical cases, and increasingly provide preventative, primary, and community health services. Often serving as the first healthcare contact, paramedics play a vital role in ensuring safe, accessible, and equitable health services.

The College’s mission is to advance excellence in paramedicine throughout Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand by:

• Leading the paramedic profession to deliver outstanding paramedicine and promote person-centred healthcare, including disease prevention and control.
• Enhancing accessibility and provision of healthcare to reduce disparities among individuals and communities.
• Promoting the role of paramedicine through education, research, advocacy, and programs focused on evidence-informed healthcare and disease prevention.

The College's annual budget is $2.9 million, supported by 19 staff (14.8 full-time equivalent), three contractors, nine directors, up to 100 committee members, and numerous event coordinators. The organization operates within professional associations, education, and healthcare sectors.

Non Executive Director Role

This volunteer position of Non Executive Director involves remote contribution to the College’s strategic governance and oversight. The Board has one vacant non-member director seat available until November 2026. The College is searching for skilled, energetic individuals with a modern perspective to complement the current Board members. While unpaid, the College will reimburse reasonable travel and related expenses incurred during role performance.

Board Structure and Commitment

The Board consists of up to nine members: six elected members and three appointed non-member directors, each serving staggered terms of up to three years. The Board convenes five to six times annually, including up to three full-day in-person meetings, generally held in Sydney or during the international conference. Directors may also join Board subcommittees.

Expected time commitment amounts to 15-20 days annually, covering meeting attendance, preparation, committee involvement, and other Board-related activities.

Desired Skills and Qualifications

The Board seeks individuals with expertise in:

• Governance including strategy formulation, policy development, risk and compliance management, executive leadership, commercial experience, and prior Board roles
• Financial literacy and financial management oversight
• Strategic initiatives focusing on governance improvements, financial stability, revenue diversification, organizational growth, partnerships, and governmental relations
• Industry knowledge regarding the Australasian paramedic system and emergency health sectors

Applicants must not be members of the College and should come from outside the paramedic profession. Board experience is essential. Candidates with governance qualifications (e.g., from recognized entities like AICD or GIA) are highly preferred.

Personal Attributes

• Integrity and ethical standards, ensuring adherence to director responsibilities and putting the College’s interests first
• Curiosity and courage to ask questions and challenge colleagues and management constructively
• Strong interpersonal abilities to collaborate effectively within group decision-making settings while communicating tactfully
• Good business instincts to quickly identify core issues
• Active participation and timely contributions to Board work

Additional Information

This volunteer role offers an opportunity to enhance professional expertise while supporting an essential service through backing the paramedic profession.