Manager, People Advisory

Fairness feels good

Make a real impact at AFCA. Where fairness drives every decision. Help us deliver world-class, independent complaints resolution for Australians. As a not-for-profit and progressive financial ombudsman, we're championing positive change. Achieving our purpose takes progressive thinking, accountability and resilience. At AFCA, our inclusive leadership values every voice. We offer our people flexible work options, thoughtful benefits and opportunities to deepen expertise. Flourish in a diverse, caring culture. Feel the difference of belonging to an organisation intentionally designed to put people first.

As Manager - People Advisory at AFCA, you'll lead the People Advisory team that's central to creating a consistent, scalable, and trusted people experience. Reporting to the Head of People Partnering & Operations, you'll oversee our People Advisory Centre (PAC) and HR Policies function, providing expert advice and ensuring smooth delivery of people-related services across the organisation.

This role balances strategic leadership with hands-on advisory. You'll act as a key escalation point for complex people matters, lead the development of HR policies, and champion self-service solutions that empower our people. With a focus on operational excellence and continuous improvement, you'll shape efficient processes, deliver strategic insights, and coach your team to grow and thrive.

In this role you will:

• Lead, coach, and mentor a team of People Advisory specialists, building a collaborative and high-performing culture.
• Act as a subject matter expert and escalation point for complex people-related matters, from performance management to workplace relations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across processes, workflows, and service delivery.
• Oversee HR policy development, risk management, and compliance with workplace legislation and awards.
• Deliver reporting and insights for senior leaders, including board-level reports and people metrics.
• Partner with stakeholders across People & Culture, Payroll, IT, and other teams to deliver a seamless employee experience.

Location: Melbourne VIC or Sydney NSW (Hybrid working available)

We're looking for a people-focused HR leader with both advisory expertise and operational experience. You'll bring:

• A tertiary qualification in Human Resources or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in HR advisory roles, with 2–3 years in a leadership capacity.
• Strong knowledge of workplace relations, including the Fair Work Act and Modern Awards.
• Experience managing complex employee relations issues with sound judgment.
• Knowledge of people risk and governance frameworks, including audit and compliance.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels.
• A track record in driving process improvement, managing projects, and delivering in fast-paced environments.

• BOSS Best Places to Work credited for its culture, engagement and flexible working arrangements.
• Most Inclusive Workplace Australian HR Institute (AHRI) Awards.
• Employer of Choice Public Sector and NFP - Australian HR Awards 2023
• Silver AWEI Accreditation Recognised for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion.
• Accredited Family Friendly Workplace – Supporting work-life balance and inclusivity.
• Hybrid working – Flexible arrangements with state-of-the-art offices designed for collaboration and wellbeing.
• Inclusive leave options – Flexible public holidays, 20 weeks paid parental leave, gender affirmation leave, women's health leave, and paid time off over Christmas.
• Financial benefits – Not-for-profit salary packaging to boost take-home pay.
• Locations – A team of over 1,200 dedicated professionals based in modern Melbourne and Sydney CBD offices.

To apply

If you're passionate about fairness and believe your skills align with this role, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every single criterion.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities. If you require any accessibility support during the recruitment process, please reach out to our team at [email protected].

AFCA is a 2025 Circle Back Initiative Employer - we are committed to responding to every applicant.