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Executive Opportunity: Chief Executive Officer - AMES Australia

​Chief Executive Officer
AMES Australia

For 70 years, AMES Australia has been a cornerstone in supporting refugees and migrants to settle in Australia. AMES is deservedly the national leader in this sector through its effective collaboration with communities, business and government to develop sustainable and effective education and settlement solutions. Their vision is "Full participation for all in a cohesive and diverse society."

Due to the impending retirement of the highly regarded incumbent, AMES is now seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead AMES into the future, enhancing its reputation as a contemporary leading national provider of settlement, English language and vocational training services. Reporting to the Board, the CEO will ensure high-quality user experiences, meaningful client outcomes and the long-term sustainability of the organisation.

The Chief Executive is responsible for the development of business strategy and delivery of innovative services as well as bringing an entrepreneurial mindset to the delivery of high value current contracts and services. This is a highly visible role in the Australian migrant and refugee sector at a Federal and State level; the Chief Executive will be skilled at engaging with a wide variety of stakeholders from all walks of life. The Chief Executive will lead a high performing inclusive team known for its’ excellence, service, commitment and innovation.

About you 

On behalf of AMES Australia, we are now seeking candidates with the following attributes: 

  • Proven strategic leader with strong business acumen. Ability to identify and develop strategies aimed at creating dynamic service offerings that maximise emerging technologies and channels to market, operational and delivery improvement. Willing to think broadly in relation to diversifying revenue streams and funding.

  • Experience at an executive leadership level, ideally with significant exposure to related sectors (but not limited to) and regulatory environments. Acting or substantive experience in another Chief Executive role is an advantage.

  • Experienced in relationship building, stakeholder engagement, influencing and negotiation in highly nuanced settings at senior levels with the sector, business, government, and community stakeholders.  

  • A contemporary people leader who can motivate and engage staff, building on an already established positive culture, values and a sense of working towards a common purpose. 

  • Proven experience in diverse business functions including finance, corporate governance, public relations, marketing and communications.

  • Adherence to the highest ethical standards and principles of inclusion.

Location: Melbourne, Victoria

AMES Australia is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all diverse groups and backgrounds.

For a confidential discussion and the Candidate Brief, please call Alison Myatt, Head of Research, on 0412 630 817 or Jen D’Arcy-Smith, Partner, on 0449 967 781.

Please send your application quoting Ref No A005829 to Watermark Search International at search@watermarksearch.com.au.

Closing date: 17:00 pm AEDT Friday 7 March 2025