Position Vacant - Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer - Aarnja
Shine People Solutions is an Aboriginal owned recruitment agency, and we assist organisations with recruitment of Indigenous executives and professionals. We are working with Aarnja to find their Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This leadership opportunity is based in Broome (the Kimberley Region of WA) and Aarnja are seeking candidates who are currently located in the Kimberley or have strong ties to the region.

About Aarnja
Aarnja is the regional body for Kimberley Aboriginal people. Their vision is to empower Kimberley Aboriginal people, communities and organisations to have a strong Aboriginal identity and share in all of the social and economic opportunities of modern society. Their mission is to work with all parties to create innovative and sustainable opportunities that empower Kimberley Aboriginal people. Aarnja is leading the change from passive welfare to Aboriginal empowerment by ensuring a positive and strong Kimberley Aboriginal identity is fostered and sustained for individuals, families and communities. One of the ways we do this, is by collaborating with governments, NGOs and Aboriginal organisations to expand policies and programs that really work for Aboriginal people.

About The CEO Role
The CEO at Aarnja plays a critical role in shaping the organisation's future, managing its operations effectively, and ensuring compliance with legal and financial obligations. The CEO is instrumental in developing corporate strategies and administrative policies, ensuring Aarnja's ongoing sustainability and positive impact on the Kimberley Region.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Formulate strategy, policy, and procedures in line with Aarnja's constitution and policies.

  • Develop and maintain relationships with funders, partners, and service providers.

  • Ensure compliance with legal, financial, and management obligations.

  • Prepare and manage budgets with board approval.

  • Oversee operational structures, policies, and systems.

  • Represent Aarnja in various forums and maintain its charity status.

  • Lead strategic planning and innovation initiatives.

  • Foster relationships with key stakeholders, including WA State and Commonwealth Governments, Kimberley Aboriginal communities, and industry organisations.


About You
To be successful in this role, you need to be a professional and innovative leader with a strong commitment to the people of the Kimberley region. Candidates relocating to take up this opportunity will need to demonstrate their desire and commitment to staying for the medium to long term.

To be considered for this role, you must possess the following skills and experience:

  • Proven experience in a similar CEO or General Manager role.

  • Demonstrated leadership experience in Indigenous Affairs.

  • Proficient in strategic planning, policy development, and decision-making, along with strong communication and change management skills.

  • A high degree of commercial and financial acumen, and advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite and Xero.

  • Knowledge of Kimberley Aboriginal cultures and protocols is highly regarded.

  • Tertiary qualifications in Business Management or similar is desirable.

  • Current (or the ability to obtain) Working with Children’s Check and Australian Federal Police clearance is essential.


We are currently seeking interest from candidates who identify as Aboriginal and / or Torres Strait Islander as well as non-Indigenous candidates.

Salary Package 
The package on offer includes: a competitive base salary, superannuation, district allowance, rental and air-conditioning subsidies and an annual leave airfare.

To Apply
Please submit your resume along with a 1-page cover letter outlining the skills and experience you will bring to this role.

Interested candidates are invited to contact Broni Crear at Shine People Solutions to gain further information and a position description. Broni can be contacted on 0426 539 217 or broni@shinepeoplesolutions.com.au

Applications close on 9 February 2024.