Non-Executive Director roles

This is a unique opportunity to have positive impact on the lives of children and families in NSW through education and care.

• Use your leadership skills and Board experience
• Contribute to improved social outcomes
• Join an engaged and professional Board with a reputation for excellence

Gowrie NSW is a surplus for-purpose organisation and over the past 76 years has greatly contributed to the richness of early and middle childhood across NSW. With a focus on research and contemporary pedagogical methodology, Gowrie NSW has been at the forefront of providing support for children and families through inclusive practice. Throughout its history, Gowrie NSW has demonstrated a strong leadership commitment to working in partnership across generations to provide a range of programs and resources that support children, families and education professionals.

Under reinvigorated commercially astute leadership, Gowrie NSW has been building on its strong foundation to grow and expand its reach and impact, and is seeking experienced Non-Executive Directors to build on this sustainable base. Gowrie NSW is looking for two individuals who are passionate about advancing their cause with two distinct skillsets:

1. Non-Executive Director – Strong brand and marketing experience
You will have specialist knowledge of and experience in marketing and brand management. You will understand the importance of a customer-centric focus and storytelling. A desire to bring your skills and experience across digital and B2C channels is important. If you have any PR experience and relevant contacts within your network, this would be highly regarded.

2. Non-Executive Director – Early education and care knowledge and experience
Gowrie NSW is looking for a non-executive Director who understands the early education and care landscape and who is committed to its excellence and improving societal outcomes. You will have a solid understanding of government policy and the regulatory environment, with a primary focus on state and local government stakeholders. Furthermore, you will have strong and relevant networks in the sector enabling you to influence on behalf of Gowrie NSW and keep abreast of changes and trends. You will be an excellent communicator, strategic in your approach, and diplomatic in managing a variety of stakeholder relationships.

These volunteer Non-Executive Director positions are an excellent opportunity to work with a high performing Board to deliver significant and measurable social impact.

Key selection criteria:
• Sound board (or equivalent) experience
• Understanding of not for profit governance
• A genuine commitment to social impact
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to influence and inspire others
• Demonstrated strategic perspective with the ability to contribute to and review strategy and effective board decision-making.
• Collaborative
• Curious and courageous with an ability to be an effective team member with the ability to ask questions and constructively challenge the board’s thinking
• An appetite for taking measured and calculated risk

All Directors are expected to have a strong understanding of corporate governance, coupled with current knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements. Qualifications from the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) or Governance Institute will be highly regarded.

There is the expectation that Board members will have a strong professional or commercial network that they will utilise from time to time to support the achievement of Gowrie NSW’s vision and purpose. Additionally, it is expected that they will occasionally attend public functions and make public statements as an advocate for Gowrie NSW. A genuine interest in contributing to childhood education and care is essential.

Board and Committee meetings are held in the Sydney CBD and/or at Gowrie NSW Sydney head office. The Gowrie NSW Board meets approximately 10 times a year and holds an annual strategy day. All Board members are expected to participate in at least one Board Committee, with quarterly meetings. Board members are not remunerated but are able to claim reasonable travel expenses in attending meetings.

For expressions of interest, please call Melissa Macpherson on 0468 625 252 or email melissa@peopleforpurpose.com.au. To apply, please submit a covering letter outlining why you are interested in representing Gowrie NSW and how your skills and experience align to this opportunity. Please also send an appropriate CV.