Since 1965, the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) has protected the air we breathe, the water we drink and the places we love. We influence governments, businesses and communities to protect the animals, rivers and reefs close to our hearts and hold decision-makers to account without fear or favour. Everything we do is evidence-based and helps nature and people thrive for generations to come. We won’t give up until Australia’s nature is protected and regenerated, and our climate is safe.

Our community of over 500,000 supporters fund our work and fuel our impact — from grassroots organising and creative campaigning to lobbying and strategic litigation. ACF’s theory of change is to:

-Disrupt business as usual: we expose undemocratic and unlawful acts and shift the public debate.

-Create solutions for nature and people: we inspire communities, businesses and governments to find better ways of doing things.

-Activate people to stand up for nature: we change hearts and minds of people across Australia and empower them to take action in their workplace, communities and electorates.

We’re searching for our next CEO — a visionary leader who can inspire a movement and help us deliver the bold, transformative change this moment demands. We need someone who can unite people, foster collaboration, and drive the greatest possible impact for nature.

We’re looking for a decisive, evidence-based leader — someone who backs their judgement, challenges the status quo, and doesn’t give up when things get tough. With passion and expertise in environmental leadership, they’ll be able to bring communities, businesses and governments together to deliver lasting, fair outcomes for people and planet.

We face vast challenges. 2030 is fast approaching. Our emissions trajectory is far from aligned with 1.5°, coal and gas projects are still expanding, and Australia’s threatened species list continues to grow. Governments and corporations too often falter under pressure. Systems are failing people and nature.

That’s why this role matters. This is the opportunity to lead Australia’s national environment organisation and help drive the big, bold action our country needs.

How to apply

Perrett Laver will conduct an executive search process in parallel with the public advertisement of the role. For further information and to apply, please submit a CV and covering letter, detailing how you fulfill the role description and personal specification to Perrett Laver’s Vacancies page quoting reference 7939.

For further information or a confidential conversation about this opportunity, please contact Janelle Entwistle (Managing Partner, Australia) or Siobhan Doherty (Partner and Lead, Social Impact and Environment, the Americas) at ACFCEO@perrettlaver.com

The deadline for applications is Monday 14th July.

If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.

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