Program Manager

Are you ready tobe a part of a leading not-for-profit organisation delivering evidence-based approaches to minimise alcohol and drug harm, that reaches millions of people in local communities?

• Inspire positive change in our community to prevent and reduce harms relating to AOD.
• Fixed term, full time position for 12 months
• Based in Melbourne a hybrid model of working from home and in the office.

Celebrating more than 65 years of service to the community, the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) is Australia's leading national organisation committed to inspiring positive change and delivering evidence-based approaches to minimise alcohol and drug harm.

Why work with us?

We're a dynamic and inclusive organisation focused on impact, innovation, and staff wellbeing.  We celebrate employee success and connect as an organisation regularly.

We provide a wide range of benefits and wellbeing initiatives, including:

• Generous not-for-profit salary packaging benefits of up to $15,900 for everyday living expenses (including rent/mortgage payments), plus Meal and Entertainment allowance of up to $2,650 per FBT year.

• Great leave entitlements including access to Purchased Leave, 2 days Christmas/New Year Leave, Health & Wellbeing leave, Accrued Day Off program and 17.5% annual leave loading.

• Truly flexible workplace – hybrid office/WFH model.

• Professional development opportunities

• Access to an extensive suite of wellbeing offerings through our Employee Assistance Program.

Why this role?

The Good Sports Program Manager will have strong community engagement experience and a proven ability to lead strategic program delivery and quality improvement initiatives. They will be experienced in direct line management, project management, business planning, budgets, stakeholder engagement and performance reporting. Their ability to communicate, engage and collaborate with program delivery teams will ensure the Good Sports Program delivers meaningful, evidence-informed harm prevention outcomes in Australian communities.

Here's a taste of what your daily activities will look like:

• Leading the delivery of the Good Sports program in line with funder requirements, program development and delivery as well as evaluation plans

• Overseeing program planning, delivery timelines, quality assurance, and continuous improvement activities

• Developing and managing the program budget in consultation with the National Community Programs Manager

• Leading and growing the Good Sports Program to support knowledge sharing and stakeholder collaboration to support achievement of program objectives.

• Developing and sustaining effective, collaborative relationships with external partners, funders, program delivery teams, and other key stakeholders.

• Providing leadership, mentoring, and supervision to team members—fostering collaboration, high performance, and a supportive team environment

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for someone passionate about community-led solutions and experienced in driving strategic program delivery that creates real impact. You'll be collaborative, analytical and committed to continuous improvement—bringing strong stakeholder engagement skills, a knack for translating insights into action, and a genuine interest in reducing alcohol and other drug-related harm in communities across Australia

Experience and skills that will set you up for success includes:

• Undergraduate (essential) and post-graduate qualifications (or equivalent industry experience) in business, sports administration, health, or social sciences related to community program management (e.g., Social Work, Public Health, Health Promotion, Public Policy and Management, Business Management)

• Significant experience in program development at a senior level

• Advanced problem-solving and critical thinking skills, with the ability to proactively address challenges and streamline program delivery

• Strong analytical and conceptual skills, with the ability to quickly absorb new information and generate innovative solutions

• Excellent communication skills—written, verbal, public speaking, and negotiation

• A strong understanding of the diverse communities across Australia and the value of evidence place-based approaches

• Demonstrated experience in creating and managing program budgets

Occasional interstate travel is required for this role as well as National Police and Working with Children Checks.

Position Description - Program Manager Good Sports

Please visit our ADF careers page to download a full copy of the position description.

How do I apply?

Click the APPLY NOW button to submit your application. Please include a resume and cover letter outlining your interest for the role.

Applications close on 4 December 2025 at 5pm AEST. Applicants may be contacted prior to the closing date, so we encourage you to submit your application ASAP.

Here at the ADF we encourage cultural diversity, and our programs are reflective of our community partners, stakeholders, and community at large.  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged to apply.

If you have any queries about the role, please contact Sacha Miezis, National Community Programs Manager via email on

We look forward to hearing from you