Chief Operating Officer

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Be a part of the inaugural executive leadership team.

Lead clinical operations and shape a newly established service that will lead the way in dedicated youth mental health and wellbeing clinical care.

Multidisciplinary teams provide comprehensive specialist care in youth mental health, informed by lived experience and cutting-edge research.

The Position

Parkville Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Service (PYMHWS) is a new public service established in response to the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System. Serving Melbourne's north-west, it is a youth-dedicated service that provides free, developmentally appropriate mental health care to young people aged 12 to 25, in partnership with Orygen – an internationally recognised leader in youth mental health research and innovation.

Established by the Victorian Government, PYMHWS represents a major shift in integrated youth mental health care that is powered by cutting edge research and innovation.

PYMHWS is now seeking an inaugural Chief Operating Officer (COO). This newly created role will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer and executive peers to lead the operational delivery of integrated clinical services. The COO will be instrumental in building a high-performing, innovative organisation that reflects the diversity and needs of young people in the region.

This is a rare opportunity for a values-driven executive to contribute to a once-in-a-generation reform. The ideal candidate will bring operational leadership experience within mental health services, a deep understanding of youth-centred care, and a passion for systemic change. If you are ready to help build a service that transforms lives and sets new standards in youth mental health, we invite you to express your interest.

The Organisation

Parkville Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Service (PYMHWS) is Victoria's first standalone public mental health service built exclusively for young people aged 12 to 25. Operational from July 2025, PYMHWS is leading a bold transformation in how youth mental health is accessed, experienced and governed across Melbourne's north and west, as part of the Local Health Service Network (LHSN).

We deliver specialist, community, and inpatient services to young people experiencing, or at risk of, mental ill-health. Our multidisciplinary teams are based at Parkville, Sunshine, Footscray, Werribee and Cherry Creek, working closely with families, carers, supporters and kin to provide developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed, inclusive care grounded in lived experience.

At PYMHWS, every decision – from the front desk to the boardroom – centres on what young people need to live the lives they want to lead.

We partner with Orygen, bringing their world-leading research and knowledge translation expertise into care delivery. Together, we are building an integrated service model that connects Orygen-operated headspace centres with PYMHWS clinical services, creating a unified care experience.

As we grow, we're building a service with – and for – young people. One that reflects the diversity of our communities, embraces continuous learning, and strengthens the mental health system around it, while contributing to the wider role of the Local Health Service Network (LHSN).

For more information on PYMHWS visit: https://pymhws.org.au/

To apply:click 'Quick apply', using reference PYMcoo0825, addressing your cover letter and resume to Kate Wheeler, Partner, of Future Leadership, or call1300 347 437 for further information.

A candidate information pack is available to download by visiting: https://futureleadership.com.au/opportunities/chief-operating-officer-pymcoo0825/

For further information on Future Leadership and additional opportunities please visithttps://futureleadership.com.au

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