Executive Director Community Health Services

ABOUT THE ROLE
North Richmond Community Health (NRCH) has been at the heart of one of Melbourne’s most diverse and resilient communities for over 50 years. NRCH is a place-based community health service committed to accessible, culturally safe care — and to the belief that health outcomes are shaped by far more than what happens in a clinic.
NRCH is seeking an Executive Director Community Health Services to join the Executive Team and help lead the next chapter of that work.
This is a senior executive leadership position reporting directly to the CEO. The role carries oversight of three service portfolios — Clinical Services, Alcohol and Other Drugs (including the Medically Supervised Injecting Room), and Community Services — leading through experienced Heads of Department and contributing to organisation-wide strategy, governance, and performance.
This is not a role for someone who wants to manage at arm’s length. The Executive Director will be close to the work, close to the community, and close to a team that genuinely cares about getting it right.

WHAT THIS ROLE REQUIRES
The successful candidate is an experienced health or community services executive who understands the balance between operational excellence and social justice. You will bring:

• Postgraduate qualifications in a relevant health field and substantial experience in executive leadership
• A strong track record translating strategy into delivery in complex, multi-service environments
• Sound clinical governance and risk management experience
• The financial acumen to manage budgets, funding agreements, and sustainability planning
• A genuine commitment to harm reduction, health equity, and the Social Determinants of Health
• A track record of leading sustainable change in complex environments
• The kind of leadership that builds trust, accountability, and capability in teams

WHY NRCH
NRCH is located on the North Richmond Housing Estate — a community of extraordinary diversity and strength — and doesn’t just serve it, it is part of it. Its model of care is rooted in genuine relationships, evidence-based practice, and a deep commitment to ensuring that those experiencing the greatest disadvantage receive care that truly meets their needs.
The Executive Team operates as a genuine ‘first team’ — decisions are made collectively, accountability is shared, and the same standards are held across all levels of the organisation.

HOW TO APPLY
This process is being managed by Searchlight Group on behalf of NRCH. For a confidential conversation, contact Michael Holdway, Managing Director.
Phone:  (03) 9600 1137     Mobile:  0400 006 513
Email:  michael@searchlightgroup.com.au
Download a comprehensive briefing pack from the link on the right hand side of this page.
 

Closing Date: May 20, 2026