Program Manager

We're hiring — Program and Operations Manager

This is a role that doesn't come up often. The first time in 8 years to be exact.

The Observership Program is looking for a Program and Operations Manager to join our small, high-performing team in Sydney. You'll split your time between running day-to-day operations for our NSW and QLD programs and overseeing the national program lifecycle across all three states — with the Victorian Operations Lead and our Office Coordinator & EA coordinating through you.

Who are we?

The Observership Program is a not-for-profit on a mission to make Australia's boardrooms look more like Australia.

When we talk about diversity, we mean all of it — age, gender, cultural background, lived experience, sexual orientation, skillset. We believe the boards and leadership teams shaping this country should reflect the full breadth of the people in it. Since 2014, we've been doing something about that — placing over 1,700 emerging professionals onto boards across eastern Australia and partnering with more than 400 organisations to open doors that have historically been hard to walk through.

We deliver a 12-month structured observership, giving participants real exposure to NFP directorship by having a seat at the board table for a full year as an Observer. Alongside that practical experience, we deliver 12 training sessions throughout the year covering the duties, the responsibilities, the culture, the ethics and the craft of good governance. This role sits right at the heart of what we do and how we do it.

We are looking for someone who genuinely cares about the experience of the people moving through our program. Observers. Boards. Partners. You'll be the person who spots what's not working, drives the improvements, and makes the program better every single year. If this sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you. Apply via the link or reach out directly.

What the role involves

• National critical path and program timetable ownership across NSW, VIC, and QLD
• End-to-end operational delivery for NSW and QLD
• Event and training logistics for our annual program calendar
• Working closely with a small, distributed team to keep everything moving

What we're looking for

• 5+ years in program operations or project management
• Not-for-Profit experience
• Salesforce proficiency — this is non-negotiable
• Someone who improves things, not just maintains them
• Exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail
• A genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion

What's on Offer

Mission-Driven Work: You'll directly support emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds gain board experience, contributing to more representative governance across Australia.

Dual-Mandate Role: This role combines strategic national oversight with hands-on operational delivery, offering both breadth and depth of experience.

Systems-Driven Environment: Work within newly implemented Salesforce automation and contribute to ongoing optimisation of our Program

Small, Agile Team: Work closely with CEO and our small, collaborative team where your contributions are visible and valued.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications for the position will need to provide the following:

1. Cover Letter: A brief Cover Letter, of not more than one page, outlining what you feel you bring to this role.
2. Current Curriculum Vitae: Providing an overview of key skills, positions held, dates, key achievements, education and training, other relevant information and two or more referees.

For further information please contact: Rachel Exton - ***email_hidden***

This is a 12-month contract at 0.8 FTE (4 days per week), hybrid, flexible role, based in Sydney. The role may convert to a permanent position for the right candidate. If you are interested in joining our small but mighty team please apply now!