Head of Formation and Engagement

Company description:

About Brisbane Catholic Education

Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) is a vibrant learning community within the Archdiocese, employing over 12,000 people across a diverse range of positions. As the largest provider of Catholic education in Queensland, BCE is dedicated to delivering high-quality education from Prep to Year 12. Through strong partnerships with parents, governments, and the wider community, BCE fosters social responsibility, self-discipline and Catholic values in all its students. We offer a supportive working culture where care for the individual is an important part of our ethos. Arrive at work every day to a welcoming and compassionate environment, knowing that you'll be supported to take care of what's important to you. Learn more about Brisbane Catholic Education.

Job description:

About our team

The Formation and Engagement Services oversees BCE's core strategic priority to deepen the understanding of and engagement with the Catholic Tradition, Scripture, and Theology among employees, students, and families through professional development, formation and experiential opportunities, alongside the development of contemporary resources that embed the Catholic Identity Framework within BCE schools and offices. This service area is comprised of three portfolios: Religious Education and Student Formation; Leadership and Staff Formation; and Engagement and Family Formation. This service area of BCE articulates a contemporary Catholic Christian worldview, to animate the centrality of Jesus and responsibility to enact Catholic Social Teachings. This includes creation and oversight of experiential learning opportunities, including pilgrimages; In- and On-Country Encounters; and Religious Education Conferences.

Summary

The Head of Formation and Engagement Services is instrumental in shaping BCE's future by leading the implementation of the Catholic Identity Framework, including the Archdiocesan Religious Education Curriculum, all grounded in BCE's Vision, Mission, and Values. This new senior role will lead a high-performing team across Leadership and Staff Formation, Religious Education and Student Formation, and Engagement and Family Formation by driving data-informed, innovative and inclusive practices that enhance student outcomes through deepening the understanding of the Catholic Tradition by developing and delivering formation in the Christian Catholic Tradition aligned with BCE's strategic priorities.

• Location: BCEO Woolloongabba
• Start date: January 2026
• Work hours:  38hr/wk | Flexible Working Arrangement Available
• Status: Fulltime Fixed Term | 5 years | January January 2031
• Salary: $275,090 total package including super and access to a motor vehicle
• Ad Close date: 27 October 2025

About the opportunity

In this position you will:

• Lead the delivery of the BCE Catholic Identity Framework, driving transformational experiences and promoting excellence and equity.
• Provide expert, strategic advice to the Formation and Engagement Executive on emerging needs, opportunities, and future strategies.
• Oversee operational systems and processes, including Accreditation, to ensure efficient and compliant operations.
• Use data and research to inform decision-making, future planning, and measure the impact of Catholic Identity initiatives.
• Develop strategic recommendations based on research and industry trends to position the department for success and growth.
• Lead and manage portfolio teams, setting clear expectations and fostering a high-performance culture.
• Build strategic partnerships with internal and external stakeholders to support BCE's objectives and enhance its reputation.
• Ensure compliance with all legal and statutory obligations, fostering a strong compliance culture.

About you

To be successful in this position you will bring relevant contemporary skills and experience including:

• A committed practising Catholic with an understanding of the purpose and mission of the Catholic Church and Catholic schools.
• Strong and proven leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, empower, and support high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication and change management skills.
• Experience in data-informed decision-making and strategic planning.
• Excellent communication and change management skills.
• Possession of Masters level qualifications in Religious Education, Theology, leadership, spirituality, or a similar relevant field

Eligibility and Safeguarding requirements:

• Eligibility to work in Australia for the duration of the appointment.
• Full registration with Queensland College of Teachers (QCT).
• Current Queensland Driver's Licence

Why choose BCE

Join us and be part of the largest Catholic Diocese in Queensland, nurturing your personal and professional development goals. As a valued member of our organisation, enjoy these and other rewards:

• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development
• Competitive remuneration and flexible work arrangements (position dependent)
• Access to targeted AI tools and training with a focus on innovation and strong ethical standards. Learn more here: The Rome Call for AI Ethics and Microsoft Australia News Centre
• Salary packaging and salary-sacrificing options
• Active staff social club and wellness programs
• Personal support for our employees and families through the Employee Assistance Program.

Please note applications for this position may be considered as they are received, and an appointment made prior to the advertised close date.

Everyone at BCE models and fosters a commitment to the safeguarding of children and promotes a culture where student protection is everyone's responsibility. The Archdiocese of Brisbane has standards of conduct for workers to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children. Our commitment to these standards requires that we conduct working with children checks and background referencing for all persons who will engage in direct and regular involvement with children and young people and/or adults-at-risk. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has a zero tolerance to abuse of children or adults-at-risk.

Equity and inclusion are at the core of our Catholic values and we recognise the benefits of a diverse workforce. We encourage and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position.

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