Community Economic Development Manager

About the role

Many Rivers, a national for-purpose organisation supporting Indigenous communities across Australia, is seeking an experienced, values-driven Community Economic Development (CED) Manager. Reporting within the CED Program, the role works directly with Indigenous Community Organisations and their communities in regional and remote areas to build sustainable business and employment opportunities. The program has supported communities since 2015 and commits to working with each community for up to five years.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain trusted, respectful relationships with Indigenous Community Organisations and community stakeholders.
• Support communities to strengthen governance, compliance frameworks, strategic planning and organisational capability.
• Facilitate business, economic development and employment strategies aligned with community priorities.
• Provide mentoring, coaching and capacity-building support to community leaders and organisations.
• Engage with government agencies, corporate partners and community stakeholders to identify opportunities.
• Help communities identify, evaluate and pursue business and economic development opportunities.
• Use financial information and management tools to support informed decision-making and build financial capability.
• Collaborate within a remote national team, sharing knowledge and best practice.

Required profile

• Demonstrated experience working respectfully with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities and individuals.
• Proven success engaging with government agencies, corporate organisations and community stakeholders.
• An established business network and stakeholder management experience.
• Coaching, mentoring and capacity-building capability.
• Ability to work independently and within a remote team; commercial or owner-operator experience highly regarded.
• Previous experience in Indigenous corporate governance or with Indigenous governing bodies highly desirable.

Required skills

• Strong financial literacy, including reading financial statements and using financial management tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, online collaboration platforms such as Zoom and Teams, and client management systems highly regarded.

What we offer

• Purpose-led work with direct social and economic impact.
• Not-for-profit salary packaging and flexible work arrangements.
• Professional development support and a 5-day annual conference.
• Paid leave between Christmas and New Year.

To apply, submit a resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria with specific examples (maximum three pages).