Join
AES
Join
AES
Contact
Us
Contact
Us
Lead a purpose-driven organisation into its next era of growth and influence.
Community Arts Network (CAN) is seeking a strategic and visionary Chief Executive Officer to guide our organisation into its next phase of impact. This is a leadership role with broad scope — driving innovation, financial sustainability, and partnerships across the arts, community, government, and corporate sectors.
You’ll work at the intersection of culture, community, and change — building relationships, strengthening governance, and shaping strategies
that transform lives through creativity.
About Us
For over 35 years, CAN has harnessed the power of creativity to connect, inspire, and strengthen communities. We believe in creating inclusive spaces where all voices are heard, and in supporting people to tell their own stories in ways that reflect the diversity, imagination, and aspirations of Western Australians.
Learn more: www.can.org.au/about
The Role
As CEO, you will:
About You
You are an accomplished leader with:
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to lead a respected organisation with a proud history and a bold future. You’ll have the scope to shape strategy, influence policy, and build alliances that strengthen Western Australia’s cultural and social fabric.
At CAN, you’ll find:
Applications close: 27 August 2025. Shortlisting will commence immediately — late applications will not be accepted.
How to apply: Please send your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and vision for the role via the APPLY button.
For more information, to request a copy of Position Description and Applicants Package or a confidential discussion, contact Kerry Fryers, Independent Board Administrator at morethanquality@outlook.com or 0434 921 127.
The association sector is in the middle of a leadership handover.
Across Australia and New Zealand, CEOs and Executive Directors are moving on. Some are retiring. Some have gone to larger organisations.
Some have left because the relationship with their Board ran out of puff. The reasons vary, but the movement is noticeable, and Boards are
appointing replacements.
The encouraging part is the calibre of the people coming in. Many are genuinely well suited to the job — capable executives with strong
records behind them. A good number are stepping into an association CEO role for the first time.
Most associations can provide a long list of membership benefits. They may include professional development, advocacy, networking, industry information, events, resources, accreditation, discounts and access to specialist advice. However, a list of benefits does not necessarily explain why someone makes the decision to join.
While every Board is different, the same governance issues appear time and again. One of the most common is allowing one person’s behaviour
to dominate the Board table.
Almost every Board has experienced it at some point. One director who seems to consume more time and energy than everyone else combined.
How we help membership based, not-for-profit associations now and into the future.
