Early Years Strategist

Hybrid model working within the office and from home
- Full time contract role till June 2027
- 5 weeks annual leave| salary packaging | discounted gym

**Who are we?**

The NDIS Partners in the Community Program (PITC) supports the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to be implemented locally.

As an NDIA partner, Northcott will deliver the NDIS Early Childhood Approach (ECA) service to local communities in Northern NSW, Mid North Coast, Hunter New England, North Sydney and Western Sydney. The EC approach supports the activities that will improve the independence and social participation of children aged 0-9 years with developmental delay and/or disability.

**Benefits we offer**:

- Hybrid model working within the office and from home.
- 5 weeks annual leave per year.
- A diverse group of people in a great team environment who share knowledge, pursue growth and a desire for excellence.
- Salary packaging, Perkbox, health and wellbeing benefits and more

**Key objectives of the position**:
Develop and lead the Early Years Strategy across Northcott. The role provides strategic direction, advice and guidance to ECS on Northcott’s Early Years Strategy and NDIS Reforms to achieve outcomes for children, families and communities.

Monitor trends in the disability environment and actively lead the planning, development and implementation of strategies that facilitate inclusion opportunities for children with disability.

Monitor trends, obstacles and opportunities in the external Child and Family services sector and provide advice and leadership recommending strategic pathways that aligns with Northcott’s strategic objectives and sector priorities.

Lead the strategic development and improvement of Early Childhood Services in collaboration with key stakeholders by identifying growth, advising on and cultivating partnership opportunities.

Lead the implementation of strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and effective delivery of outcomes for children, families, and communities.

**Specific skills for the role**:

- Ability to develop and lead the Northcott Early Years Strategy
- Ability to develop and manage key stakeholder relationships in the Early Childhood and Disability environments
- Be Goal focused and driven in meeting key deliverables.
- Demonstrate sound understanding of emerging NDIS Reforms
- Comprehensive knowledge of the local service environment where customers reside, including funded and non-funded services.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and provide timely, accurate advice and reporting to Senior Management and the NDIA.
- Excellent critical thinking, problem solving and analytical skills.
- High level verbal and written communication skills including the ability to write reports and grant submissions
- Excellent negotiation and influencing skills including the ability to stay calm and communicate effectively under pressure
- High level organisational and time management skills and the ability to deliver to project deadlines
- Proficient computer skills.
- Ability to remain objective and impartial when providing support and guidance.
- Appreciation and acceptance of diversity for wellness
- Knowledge of the Disability Services Act and the Disability Service Standards.
- Knowledge of the _Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012_ and other child protection legislation the principles of 'Keep Them Safe'.

**Essential Qualifications and Experience for the role**:

- Minimum degree qualifications in Social Work, Social Sciences, Allied Health or Business Development
- Minimum 5 years’ management experience in Early Childhood, Disability or related field
- Experience delivering to high level project deadlines
- Experience working in collaboration with mainstream and community stakeholders for best outcomes for children and families
- Demonstrated experience in all aspects of working with, negotiating and reporting to NSW and Commonwealth government departments.
- Demonstrated experience leading and implementing early childhood intervention strategies
- Experience supporting teams remotely.
- Current Driver's Licence - P1 minimum
- Valid Working with Children’s Check Clearance - mandatory
- Valid NDIS Worker Screening Check (NDIS WC) or willingness to obtain - mandatory
- Working Rights in Australia
- Successful pre-employment police check

Application close 10th of January 2025

**Diversity and Inclusion Statement