Join SSI’s Board to champion equity, lead with purpose, and shape inclusive communities across Australia through strategic governance and impact.
- Collaborate on bold, inclusive national initiatives
- Leverage your network to influence systemic change
- Bring your governance expertise to social purpose leadership
The organisation
Settlement Services International (SSI) is a national, social purpose organisation founded in Sydney in 2000, now with over 1,000 employees delivering human and social services across NSW, VIC, and QLD. Originally focused on refugee settlement, SSI now supports diverse communities – including migrants, asylum seekers, people with disability, LGBTQIA+, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander communities, women, children, and youth – across nearly 60 programs, reaching over 67,000 people annually. Service areas include settlement support, disability, employment, education, health and wellbeing, legal assistance, and community engagement.
Driven by a vision of “equality of life for everyone”, SSI pairs lived-experience empathy with sector-leading expertise and research to deliver holistic, culturally responsive support. SSI operates place-based casework models and fosters social inclusion via programs like Ignite (small business), creative arts, and social enterprises. A strong advocate and innovative policy partner, SSI collaborates with the government, corporate sponsors, and international human rights forums to drive systemic change.
The role
SSI is seeking a high-profile Non-Executive Director who is passionate about creating social impact, particularly for people from migrant, refugee, and asylum-seeking backgrounds and other vulnerable families and communities. This NED will contribute to SSI’s mission of achieving equality of life for everyone by providing strategic oversight, governance, and independent judgment. Working collaboratively with fellow Board members and the Executive team, this leader will play a vital role in shaping SSI’s direction, guiding organisational transformation, and ensuring accountability across its diverse portfolio of human and social services. The role requires strong engagement in Board discussions, thoughtful decision-making, and the ability to challenge and support SSI’s leadership to deliver on its vision.
With a member of the Board stepping off now that their term is complete, the Board is looking for a leader with deep experience in strategic development, governance, and senior executive roles. This NED will bring strong networks across government, philanthropy, corporate, or community sectors, along with a demonstrated understanding of social issues facing migrant, refugees, and vulnerable communities. Prior board or senior leadership experience, exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex political environments. Experience in fundraising, media, technology, or cultural competence will be highly regarded. Most importantly, a leader who will embody empathy, curiosity, and sound judgment, contributing to SSI’s impact as an innovative, inclusive, and nationally recognised organisation.
To apply
People for Purpose is partnering with SSI to lead the search for this role.
- We invite you to read the Board Pack (https://shorturl.at/Eu611). To review SSI annual reports and financial statements, please visit their website and ACNC 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 SSI. A considered cover letter will be an important part of your application.
Applications close at 9am on Monday, 29 September 2025.