About CSSV

Catholic Social Services Victoria (CSSV) is the peak body for Catholic social services across Victoria. Guided by Catholic Social Teaching, we work with more than 40 member organisations, the Catholic Bishops of Victoria and the broader Catholic community to support people experiencing disadvantage, vulnerability and marginalisation.

Through advocacy, policy development, collaboration and sector leadership, CSSV works to advance a more just, equitable and compassionate society. We bring together Catholic social service agencies, parishes, Church organisations, government and community partners to drive positive social change and improve outcomes for Victorian communities.

At the heart of our work is a commitment to human dignity, solidarity and social justice, ensuring the voices and experiences of those most in need inform our advocacy and action.

About the Role

The Executive Director provides strategic, operational and sector leadership for Catholic Social Services Victoria (CSSV). Reporting to the Council, the role leads the organisation’s advocacy, policy development, stakeholder engagement and organisational performance, while advancing the mission and values of Catholic Social Teaching.

Working closely with member agencies, the Catholic Bishops of Victoria, government and community partners, the Executive Director represents CSSV across the sector and drives initiatives that strengthen Catholic social services and improve outcomes for people experiencing disadvantage and marginalisation across Victoria.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the planning and priorities of the Council in addressing the purpose and objects of CSSV. Report in a timely and accurate manner to the Council on the strategic plan and on the CSSV Secretariat’s activities and performance.
• Plan and direct the work of CSSV so as to maximise its effectiveness and efficiency in accordance with its Mission and Constitution and within approved budgets; lead and manage a small group of staff.
• Conduct the advocacy and associated relationships with State and local governments, media, CSSA, other peak bodies, Catholic health and other parts of the Church in Australia; establish and maintain productive relationships with relevant bureaucrats and others who make or influence policies and regulations; ensure that members’ issues with respect to government policies are brought to the table and dealt with productively.
• Consult, advise and assist member agencies on policy responses and initiatives as regards proposals to/from governments; initiate, commission and oversee research as appropriate to support or guide policymaking.
• Establish and maintain effective communications with the Bishops and other major stakeholders so as to assist them in their social and pastoral mission.
• Promote the Catholic ethos, identity and profile of the CSSV member agencies; promote and facilitate collaboration among the networks and assist them as appropriate in the interpretation and implementation of Catholic social justice principles as contained in its social doctrine.
• Facilitate closer links and relationships between member agencies and Parish communities.

Key Selection Criteria

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in social policy, social sciences, public policy, business, law or a related disciplines.
• A working knowledge of Catholic social teaching.
• Demonstrated strategic leadership capability, sound judgement and decision-making skills.
• Excellence in personal and social relationships and communication skills, both oral and written.
• Demonstrated ability to influence others in a positive and productive manner.
• Advanced policy and advocacy skills, and a good understanding of Government policy processes.
• Several years’ experience either in leadership of a social service agency or in relevant government or business agencies.
• Experience in working with Boards (Council and committee structures).
• Extensive networking of relevant key contacts.
• A strong and personal commitment to the values and practices of the Catholic Church.

Why work for CSSV?

• We live our values – Wisdom, Integrity, Honesty, Compassion, Sustainability, Forgiveness, Generosity and Courage.
• We are located on the edge of the CBD in leafy East Melbourne and within a 5-minute walk of Parliament station.
• You will have the opportunity to become a part of our dedicated and supportive team of people.
• We have a “flexibility first” approach and provide generous leave policies.
• You will have access to our Employee Assistance Program to support your personal health and wellbeing.

How to Apply

Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne (CAM) is supporting CSSV with the recruitment process for this position and is advertising the opportunity on CSSV’s behalf.

If you feel your skills and experience align with the above criteria, we would love to hear from you. Apply by clicking the “Apply Now” button and submitting your application. Applications should include a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, a response addressing the Key Selection Criteria, and a current resume. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Employment with CSSV is subject to satisfactory background checks, which include a National Police Check, Working with Children Check and Reference Checks. To be successful in this role you must hold valid working rights in Australia.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne is committed to the safety, wellbeing and dignity of all children and vulnerable adults. It is a requirement across our organisation that all clergy, employees and volunteers have a valid working with children check.