Director of Leadership

• Fixed Term - 3 Year Contract
• Darwin NT
• Total Remuneration Package: $220,000 - $230,000 (inclusive of 15% superannuation)

This position is designated under Special Measures, with priority consideration for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants under section 57 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1996 (NT).

Lead a new chapter in NLC's transformation

The Northern Land Council (NLC) is entering a new era of regionalisation and governance reform. We are seeking an experienced and culturally capable leader to take on the newly established Director of Leadership role. This senior position will act as a vital link between the CEO, Council, Chair and General Managers, ensuring Traditional Owner voices remain central to decision-making and guiding the organisation through change.

About the role

Reporting directly to the CEO and as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Leadership will provide trusted advice and operational coordination that enables the CEO and Council to focus on strategic priorities. The role will lead the Council Services unit, ensuring Council meetings and processes are efficient, culturally safe, and accountable, while also overseeing the implementation of Council decisions.

This is a highly visible position that will represent the CEO in high-level forums, building strong relationships with the Chair, Traditional Owners, government partners, and key stakeholders. It will also progress CEO-led initiatives and special projects that support the NLC's transformation agenda and regionalisation priorities.

Created as part of recent organisational reform, this new role is designed to strengthen governance, drive accountability, and embed a Traditional Owner–centric model of leadership across the NLC.

Refer to the full position description (link)

About you

You are a proven senior executive with:

• At least five years' senior leadership experience supporting a CEO, Council or Board in complex and politically sensitive environments.
• Deep cultural capability and experience working with Aboriginal people, communities, and leaders.
• Strong understanding of the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act 1976 and the PGPA Act 2013.
• Exceptional interpersonal, cross-cultural, and negotiation skills with the gravitas to represent the CEO.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and deliver outcomes under pressure.
• A current C Class driver's licence and willingness to travel extensively across NLC's regions (4WD and light aircraft).
• Postgraduate qualifications in a relevant field will be highly regarded.

What you'll get in return

This is not just a leadership role, it is a chance to contribute to the future of one of Australia's largest Aboriginal Land Councils during a period of renewal and reform. In this new position, you will strengthen the way the Council, Chair and CEO work together, ensuring governance is coordinated, accountable and culturally grounded. At the same time, you will play a key role in advancing NLC's regionalisation agenda, supporting stronger services and outcomes across our seven regions.

By joining us, you will:

• Lead and enhance Council Services, ensuring members are supported to make effective, culturally safe decisions.
• Provide the CEO and Chair with the coordination and advice needed to deliver on Council priorities.
• Help embed governance processes that balance cultural authority with statutory responsibilities.
• Contribute to "Building the Bush", our regionalisation strategy, ensuring Council outcomes translate into stronger regional delivery and long-term benefits for constituents.

In return, you will also receive:

• A total remuneration package of $220,000 – $230,000 (inclusive of 15% super).
• Salary packaging benefits (up to $15,900 + $2,650 for meals/holiday accommodation).
• Generous leave provisions 5 weeks annual leave, 18 days personal leave, and paid Christmas close-down.
• The opportunity to work across diverse regions, communities and cultures, supporting country, culture and people in ways that few leadership roles can offer.

How to apply

All applications must be lodged via the NLC Jobs Website and include:

• A cover letter (maximum 2 pages) addressing the selection criteria.
• A current CV.
• Copies of relevant qualifications.

Applications close: Tuesday 23 September 2025

For Further enquiries contact NLC recruitment team on