Lead Australia’s contribution to a global movement ending violence
- Chair a purpose-driven Board at a pivotal growth stage
- Influence government, philanthropy and corporate engagement
- Partner with CEO to scale impact and justice outcomes
The organisation
International Justice Mission (IJM) is a global leader in protecting people living in poverty from violence. Operating across more than 30 countries, IJM works to rescue victims, restore survivors, bring perpetrators to justice and strengthen justice systems for lasting protection.
IJM addresses some of the world’s most complex forms of violence, including modern slavery, human trafficking and online sexual exploitation. Through deep partnerships with local authorities, governments and communities, IJM works to ensure justice systems function effectively so that violence is not only addressed – but prevented.
IJM Australia plays a critical role in advancing this mission by mobilising funding, advocacy and influence. As an advancement office, it engages individuals, corporates, philanthropy and government to both resource global programs and shape policy and public awareness. Grounded in a lived Christian faith, IJM combines professionalism, collaboration and compassion to pursue justice with integrity and excellence.
The role
The Chair provides strategic and values-led leadership to the IJM Australia Board, ensuring effective governance, clear direction and faithful stewardship of the organisation’s mission. Working in close partnership with the CEO and fellow Directors, The Chair fosters a high-performing, collaborative and inclusive Board culture – characterised by trust, openness and constructive challenge – where diverse perspectives inform thoughtful, well-considered decision-making.
IJM Australia operates as an advancement office within a global movement, mobilising funding and influence to support frontline justice programs. This dual mandate – securing sustainable financial support and strengthening engagement across government, corporate and philanthropic sectors – is central to Australia’s contribution to IJM’s global mission to protect people from violence.
This is a significant and formative period for IJM Australia. Building on strong foundations, the organisation is strengthening its model of support to enable its next phase of impact.
The role would suit an individual with the following experience and attributes:
- Significant leadership experience in one or more of the following: business, government, international development, philanthropy or the not-for-profit sector
- Prior Board experience, with Chair or Deputy Chair experience highly regarded
- Strong capability in governance, strategy, risk and financial oversight, ideally within a charitable or complex stakeholder environment
- Experience engaging and influencing senior stakeholders across government, philanthropy, corporate or civil society sectors
- The ability to facilitate robust discussion, guide complex decision-making and foster a high-performing Board environment
- Familiarity with the Australian philanthropic and charity landscape, including fundraising, partnerships or advocacy
- An understanding of international development, justice issues or modern slavery would be advantageous
As Chair, you will support the Board in strengthening strategic relationships with government, major supporters, corporates and philanthropic partners – supporting the organisations access to the resources, networks and influence required to expand IJM’s impact. While not a direct fundraising role, the Chair will serve as a visible and credible ambassador for the organisation.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to systemic change on a global scale – supporting governance that enables the protection of vulnerable people from violence and advances justice for those living in poverty.
Grounded in a deeply held and active Christian faith, the Chair will model IJM’s values – integrating Christian values, professionalism and bridge-building into leadership and decision-making.
To apply
People for Purpose is partnering with International Justice Mission to lead the search for this role.
- We invite you to read the board pack (https://shorturl.at/8l4e0). To review International Justice Mission’s annual reports and financial statements, please visit their website www.ijm.org.au and ACNC profile – https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/08d311f8-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/profile.
- Once you have absorbed this information and completed your own research, if you have specific questions, please call us on 0468 625 252 or email [email protected]
- Your application will include your CV, as well as a cover letter outlining how your skills and experience align to this opportunity and why you are interested in joining International Justice Mission. A considered cover letter will be an important part of your application.
Applications close at 5pm on Sunday, 26 April 2026.
IJM embraces diversity and aspires to create an inclusive work and volunteer environment. We recognise people of all genders, ethnicities, sex, race, socioeconomics, age and abilities, and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
If you require any adjustments to make the recruitment or interview process accessible, we welcome a conversation about how we can support you. We also recognise that strong candidates may not meet every criterion listed; if you feel aligned to the role and our mission, we encourage you to reach out. We are open to considering a range of experiences and are committed to reducing barriers that may prevent talented individuals from applying.
IJM holds strict safeguarding principles and a zero tolerance to violations of the Safeguarding Policy, Protection against Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment Policy, and Code of Ethics.