(AS915) Chief Executive Officer, OHAA

The Organisation
In an exciting development, a new peak professional association representing Oral Health Practitioners in Australia will commence full operations on July 1, 2025. The Oral Health Association of Australia Ltd (OHAA) will be the unified voice for all Dental Hygienists, Dental Therapists, and Oral Health Therapists, offering enhanced representation, quality continuing professional development, and comprehensive member services.

This purpose built organisation combines the expertise and legacy of two highly regarded peak bodies – the Australian Dental and Oral Health Therapists’ Association Ltd (ADOHTA) and the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia Limited (DHAA). Through consolidated advocacy, workforce development, and public education initiatives, OHAA will be better positioned to address the longstanding neglect of oral health needs in our communities.

By unifying Oral Health Practitioners under one umbrella, OHAA reflects the evolving nature of the profession and will champion excellence in innovative care models to improve oral health outcomes across the community.

The Role 
As the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the OHAA, you will lead the organisation through a number of early phase organisational chapters, bringing further unification to the strategy, structure and services. 

This role will lead a small team of paid staff and volunteers. The CEO will play a pivotal role in establishing the organisation’s strategic vision, building strong relationships with key stakeholders, and driving its mission forward. 

This role requires strategic oversight of key operational elements, including the review and confirmation of new positions, annual programs, professional development initiatives, and advocacy strategies. This will bring an enhanced value proposition to the members and potential members of the organisation. 

We appreciate the unique challenges and opportunities associated with leading a newly formed association and are prepared to identify candidates who can effectively navigate this dynamic environment.

Key elements in the medium to longer term will be navigating sector challenges and opportunities such as regulatory and demographic changes, and allow for organic growth through member value.

It will be important to have the demonstrated experience to: 

• Manage operations for members and staff
• Improve financial performance
• Increase membership
• Drive advocacy success

The Person 
With a keen understanding of sector trends within member associations and a focus on continuing organisational sustainability, the new CEO will lead the staff and volunteer teams to create all elements of a purpose built peak association. 

You will be able to balance the competing priorities of member needs, advocacy success, financial performance and building a strong strategic pathway. 

Your experience in governance and risk management, and reporting to the board of directors is essential. 

Ideally you will have exceptional leadership, change management, and communication skills, coupled with a good understanding of the health landscape in Australia.

A genuine respect for the history of the previous associations, and an ability to lead in a dynamic environment is essential, as is a collaborative leadership style that fosters a strong culture of continuous improvement.

Your deep understanding of peak body operations will enable you to drive strategic effectiveness across all business areas, positioning the organisation for sustained growth and success.

The Rewards 
Oral Health Association of Australia offers a unique opportunity to be the inaugural CEO of the association, which allows for incredible career variety and growth. 

The role provides a competitive salary package and the opportunity to work flexibly and remotely from anywhere across Australia. 

For a confidential discussion, contact Leighton Cantrill at 0493 827 145 or Lesley Lightfoot at 0429 381 277. To apply, click the link below and submit your tailored CV (Word format).