Job Description
Lead the Future of Sport and Physical Activity across the Hunter and Central Coast
Make a Lasting Impact on Community Wellbeing
An exciting opportunity to develop and implement a short, medium and long-term strategic plan
Are you a dynamic & visionary CEO with a passion for sport and wellbeing to lead NUsport into the next phase of growth?
About NUsport
Through its programs, facilities, and network of affiliated clubs, NUsport is uniquely positioned to enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of students, staff, and the broader community. With an annual turnover of approximately $7 million and a 2024 membership base of 16,800, NUsport manages key facilities at Callaghan, Harbourside, Field Space and Management, and a pop-up gym at Ourimbah.
Throughout its history, NUsport has grown and succeeded by understanding and adding value to the role that sport, physical activity, and wellbeing play within the University of Newcastle and the wider community. The recent change of NUsport to a controlled entity of the University sets the foundation for new growth opportunities through collaboration with students, staff, University executives, sporting authorities, and community groups.
About the opportunity
This is an exciting time to join NUsport as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). You will be at the forefront of driving strategic change, shaping organisational culture, and building partnerships that contribute to the sustainable growth and development of NUsport.
As CEO, you will be responsible for developing and implementing NUsport’s vision and strategy, managing its financial and physical resources, and leading a team dedicated to excellence in service delivery. You will report directly to the Board to ensure the achievement of strategic objectives, sustainable performance, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
Ensure effective corporate governance by facilitating decision-making and providing strategic leadership.
Develop and deliver the strategic plan over the short, medium and long-term in collaboration with the Board, the University of Newcastle and other stakeholders.
Manage financial and physical resources to maintain high levels of service delivery, including the delivery of the significant capital works program.
Lead, build, and develop the executive team and staff to create a productive organisation aligned with NUsport’s objectives.
Develop and nurture relationships with the community, local businesses, government entities, and key stakeholders to enhance NUsport’s capabilities.
About you
The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a strong track record of leadership in the sports, recreation, or health sector. You will have a passion for promoting community wellbeing and be committed to enhancing NUsport’s reputation as a leader in sports physical activity and wellbeing. Your ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, manage large-scale operations, and drive financial performance will be crucial to your success in this role.
The skills and experience we are looking for include:
Tertiary qualifications in business, management, or a related field.
Proven experience as a CEO or in a senior leadership role with a strong record of success.
Strategic vision and the ability to drive organisational growth and transformation.
Strong financial management skills, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
Operational expertise, particularly in managing facilities, services, and staff.
Experience in delivering multi year capital works programs.
Exceptional stakeholder management abilities, with a focus on building strong relationships.
A deep commitment to promoting sport physical activity and wellbeing as essential to community health.
Knowledge of governance and compliance frameworks.
How to apply
To learn more about this exceptional leadership opportunity, please contact Amanda MacGregor on 02 4927 2005 or amandam@peoplefusion.com.au or Sally Bartley on 02 4927 2016 or sallyb@peoplefusion.com.au or a confidential discussion. Alternatively, click "Apply" to submit your CV and introductory letter that lets us know why you are excited by this opportunity and the skills you believe will be valuable for this important leadership position.
Application Close Date: Midnight Sunday 22nd September
At peoplefusion we don’t just accept diversity and inclusion —we celebrate it! We strive to create an environment of equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, lifestyle, age, religion or physical ability, and welcome applications from people from all backgrounds. If you require any assistance with your application please don’t hesitate to contact us.
