Executive Director - Science Teachers Association of Victoria

Melbourne
Full-Time

Because of current Australian visa regulations, only candidates with Australian/New Zealand residency or citizenship are eligible to apply.

Before applying, you must contact Andrew Abbott to obtain information about the role.

• Shape the future of science education in Victoria.
• Drive innovation and expansion in a well-established organisation.
• Engage with diverse stakeholders in a mission-driven role.

The role

The Executive Director will lead the implementation of the Science Teachers Association of Victoria's (STAV) strategic vision, driving revenue growth, membership engagement, advocacy, and partnerships while ensuring high-quality services and financial sustainability, within a culture that supports the organisation's purpose, values, and long-term objectives.

The STAV Council is seeking an Executive Director with a strong commitment to its mission and values, relevant experience in leadership roles within the not-for-profit or education sectors, proven expertise in revenue generation, stakeholder engagement, team management, strategic thinking, and fundraising, along with exemplary communication skills and a deep understanding of operating within resource-constrained environments. 

Key Selection Criteria

1. Demonstrated commitment to STAV’s purpose and values.
2. Minimum five years’ experience in a similar role.
3. Demonstrated experienced in not-for-profit or education sector, with revenue generation experience, program service delivery and stakeholder management, people and budget management and a commitment to community engagement and advocacy.
4. Demonstrated experience delivering quality internal corporate activities; across a range of locations, involving various stakeholders and with differing purposes.
5. Demonstrated ability to actively seek and attract funding for projects and operations from government philanthropic and other sources.
6. Demonstrated ability to effectively lead, manage, motivate and mentor teams.
7. Exemplary interpersonal communication skills with the demonstrated ability to develop relationships of trust and confidence with diverse stakeholders, internally and externally.
8. Demonstrated ability to be analytical and strategic, and to think laterally and drive change to advance the organisation financial position and long-term sustainability.
9. Understanding of the not-for-profit sector, particularly in relation to working with limited resources, within budgetary constraints and with voluntary and pro bono assistance; Not-for-profit experience is preferred but not essential.
10. Tertiary level qualification in education, business, social or behavioural sciences or other relevant discipline.

The organisation

The Science Teachers Association of Victoria, established in 1943, is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to advancing science education across all levels in Victoria. Through its various programs, including conferences, workshops, the Science Talent Search, and publications, STAV provides essential leadership, support, and resources to both its members and the broader educational community. 

Representing the collective voice of science educators, STAV engages in advocacy, professional development, and the promotion of science education, working closely with industry, government, and academic institutions to foster a thriving science education environment.

STAV’s mission is rooted in a commitment to knowledge, integrity, collaboration, and innovation, with a vision of creating a community passionate about science and science education. The association focuses on developing the science education sector, transforming its offerings to meet emerging needs, sustaining organisational strength, and advocating for the interests of science educators. 

Through these efforts, STAV aims to maintain its role as a key influencer in shaping science education policy and practice in Victoria, ensuring that science education remains dynamic, relevant, and accessible to all.

How to apply

To receive a candidate brief, or to arrange a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Andrew Abbott, Partner at Fish Nankivell, on 0401 712 953 or aabbott@fishnankivell.com.

Applications close Thursday, 3 October 2024. A concurrent search is being conducted.

Applications should comprise a CV and cover letter and be emailed to aabbott@fishnankivell.com. 

Other Articles

Published July 26, 2026

Four Things Every New Association CEO Must Know

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.

Read more

Published July 16, 2026

Why Do People Really Join Your Association?

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.

Read more

Published July 16, 2026

How to manage the Association Director that takes up all your energy.

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.

Read more