General Manager, Community Engagement

• Lead growth and transformation across Development, Communications and Public Affairs functions
• Join the executive team and drive lasting impact
• Champion bold and innovative strategies
• Melbourne CBD (hybrid)

Established in 1923, the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation is one of Australia’s largest independent community foundations. For over a century, this highly-respected organisation has championed positive social change, supporting innovative and effective programs that address some of Greater Melbourne’s most pressing challenges.

Having recently refreshed its strategic direction, putting social justice and equity at the heart of everything it does, it is in the process of reimagining itself so it can remain one of Australia’s most progressive and impactful organisations.

Strategy 2030 brings an integrated, whole of organisation focus on the concepts of a wellbeing economy, amplifying impact across the intersection of three impact areas: Economic Justice, Climate Justice, and Housing Justice. Their work balances addressing urgent community needs with the ambition to influence long-term, systemic change. Grounded in purpose, equity, humility, and collective leadership, they are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to help shape the next chapter of its journey.

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and serving as a member of the Executive Team, the General Manager, Community Engagement will lead the successful integration and future planning of two high-performing teams—Development and Communications and also play a key role in the Foundations public affairs and advocacy voice. This role will foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and strategic growth, while championing bold, forward-thinking approaches that elevate the Foundation’s reach, reputation, and long-term impact.

You will lead, mentor, and inspire a united team that manages diverse and dynamic portfolios, including donor relations, partnerships, fundraising, community engagement, brand, marketing, communications, and events—driving excellence and cohesion across all engagement activities.

About YOU:

You are a strategic and inspiring leader with a passion for community-driven change and a deep understanding of philanthropy, communications, and stakeholder engagement. You bring a blend of visionary thinking, commercial acumen, and people leadership that enables you to drive growth and impact.

You will bring:

• Proven experience in leading high-impact development, communications and public affairs programs, initiatives, and cross-functional teams.
• A strong ability to build and nurture strategic partnerships across philanthropic, corporate, government, and community sectors.
• A track record of achieving revenue targets, securing donor support through funds under management and collaborative giving initiatives, and identifying new income streams and strategic opportunities.
• Relevant expertise in communications and marketing, including brand, reputation management, and thought leadership across diverse platforms and audiences.
• Leadership and commercial insight to contribute meaningfully to whole-of-organisation planning, governance, and a values-led culture.
• Exceptional people leadership skills, with the ability to unite and guide a high-performing team through change and growth, while embedding operational excellence, innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

This is a rare opportunity to join an organisation with a proud legacy and an ambitious future. You’ll be part of a passionate and purpose-driven team, working in a collaborative environment to create real and lasting change in the lives of people across Greater Melbourne.

Gembridge Australia is proud to partner with the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation.

APPLY NOW if you are an authentic and inclusive leader with proven experience in development, communications, and strategic engagement, and are highly motivated to shape the next phase of growth and impact.

For a confidential discussion, contact Michelle Varcoe or Jenni D’Orival at Gembridge Australia on 03 8375 9661 or [email protected].

Gembridge Australia champions diversity and is committed to building an inclusive environment. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people of all abilities, cultures, sexual orientation and genders.