Lead boldly. Govern collaboratively. Influence strategically.

Health Consumers NSW: The Voice at the Table

Health Consumers NSW (HCNSW) is the independent, statewide peak body representing health consumers, carers and community organisations across NSW.

We ensure consumer voices are present where decisions are made — not consulted at the margins.

For more than a decade, HCNSW has worked alongside NSW Health, government agencies, research institutions and sector leaders to embed lived experience into health policy, service design and medical research.

We are not a service provider. We are an advocate, a convener and a trusted partner in system reform.

With a strong foundation and a growing research portfolio, HCNSW is entering its next phase, building on established influence while preparing for the future.

The Moment

After over ten years of excellent leadership by Dr Anthony Brown, HCNSW is transitioning to a new CEO.

The organisation is stable, credible and highly regarded and this is a huge opportunity to help guide this next stage — strengthening revenue sustainability, shaping the 2026–2029 Strategic Plan and leading thoughtful organisational growth.

The Mandate

Reporting to the Chair and Board, the Chief Executive Officer will lead strategy, performance and stakeholder engagement to ensure HCNSW remains the leading voice for health consumers in NSW.

Your mandate will include:

• Delivering and refining the current Strategic Plan while shaping the next three-year direction
• Building a high-trust partnership with the Board to uphold strong governance and strategic clarity
• Maintaining and deepening relationships with NSW Health and key sector stakeholders
• Strengthening and diversifying revenue streams
• Ensuring sound financial oversight, accountability and risk management
• Leading and developing a small, capable, virtual team
• Representing HCNSW across state and national forums

Governance in Partnership

HCNSW operates with clear governance boundaries — the Board governs; the CEO leads.

Success in this role will depend on building a transparent and respectful partnership with the Chair and Board. This is a collaborative governance model, grounded in shared purpose and open dialogue.

It will suit a leader who values strategic debate, clear accountability and collective stewardship.

Your First 90 Days

This appointment includes a structured and supported transition.

The outgoing CEO, moving into a Research Manager role within HCNSW, will provide an in-depth handover over several months. Stakeholder relationships, strategic context and organisational history will be actively shared.

Your initial phase will include:

• Governance, funding and strategic briefings
• Dedicated sessions with Board members
• Introductions to staff and key internal programs
• Facilitated meetings with NSW Health and major external stakeholders
• A clearly defined 90-day leadership roadmap

The Leader We’re Seeking

You bring senior executive experience within health, human services, advocacy or the community sector, along with strong governance and stakeholder capability and you are aware of the political context in which the organisation operates. 

You demonstrate:

• Strategic thinking and systems awareness
• Financial literacy and stewardship
• Experience leading measured organisational change
• Capability to strengthen income sustainability
• Strong relationship and influence skills across government and sector partners

The Offer

Remuneration is aligned with the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award (SCHADS), Level 8 (8.1–8.3), dependent on experience.

The package includes superannuation, salary packaging benefits, portable long service leave and flexible hybrid arrangements.

Take Your Seat at the Table

We encourage you to apply for this role if you want to:

• Shape the next chapter of NSW’s peak health consumer organisation
• Work in genuine partnership with an engaged and strategically focused Board
• Benefit from a structured transition and in-depth executive handover
• Influence health policy, systems and research at state and national levels

Health Consumers NSW values diversity, lived experience and inclusive leadership.  So if you want to; lead thoughtfully, govern collaboratively and influence strategically, apply today.