Head of People and Culture

Overview

Based in Sydney with required regular attendance at ANROWS' Sydney Head Office, this leadership role is crucial to shaping the organisational culture of Australia's premier research institute dedicated to ending violence against women and children. ANROWS is evolving, with a new strategic phase and organisational transformation under way, and this role will help establish foundational people and culture systems to support its future.

Role Summary

As a vital member of the Senior Leadership Team, the successful candidate will act as a trusted advisor to the CEO, Executives, and leaders across the organisation. The position involves overseeing both strategic and operational people and culture outcomes, building systems, frameworks, and practices that promote a sustainable and high-performing workforce.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive ANROWS’ People & Culture strategies and workforce planning initiatives.
• Enhance organisational culture, employee engagement, and develop leadership capability.
• Support leaders during periods of organisational change and transformation.
• Develop and implement modern people management systems and processes.
• Manage employee relations and industrial compliance.
• Promote workforce capability development, retention, and succession planning.
• Champion psychosocial safety, employee wellbeing, and trauma-informed practices.
• Lead organisational development programs, remuneration frameworks, and workforce planning activities.
• Deliver insightful strategic workforce advice to Executive and Board members.

Candidate Profile

The ideal applicant will possess substantial experience as a senior People & Culture or Human Resources leader, adept at navigating complexity, uncertainty, and organisational change. Experience in purpose-driven, government, research, community services, higher education, or sophisticated corporate settings is valuable. Strong strategic vision combined with hands-on delivery ability is essential, along with credibility in executive partnerships.

Essential Qualifications and Skills

• Proven senior leadership in People & Culture or Human Resources functions.
• Expertise in organisational development, workforce planning, and change management.
• Comprehensive understanding of Australian employment law, industrial relations, and compliance.
• Track record of building or enhancing people management frameworks and processes.
• Exceptional interpersonal, stakeholder engagement, and influencing capabilities.
• High emotional intelligence, sound judgement, and resilience.
• Experience guiding leaders through complex cultural and workforce challenges.
• A collaborative, practical, and solutions-oriented mindset.

Why Join ANROWS?

• Contribute to impactful work of national importance improving safety for women and children.
• Flexible work environment complemented by a Sydney-based office presence.
• Access to salary packaging benefits.
• Engage with a collaborative and mission-driven leadership team.
• Opportunity to shape organisational strategy and long-term direction.
• Engage in meaningful work with lasting social impact.
• Opportunity to craft and leave a significant legacy within the organisation.

Additional Information

This role requires regular attendance at the Sydney Head Office. Applications from diverse backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and culturally diverse communities are warmly encouraged. For a confidential discussion regarding this opportunity, potential applicants may contact Mahala via email.