Penington Institute

Non-Executive Directors
Closing Date
February 23, 2025
Capacity:
Volunteer
Location:
Preferably Melbourne
Join an organisation that empowers communities, policymakers and frontline workforces with the knowledge and tools to better manage drugs.
  • Bring your strategic thinking to a dynamic, impactful organisation
  • Utilise your network to amplify the Institute’s reach and impact
  • Support governance excellence in a forward-thinking Board
The organisation

Penington Institute, founded in 2014 and based in VIC, is dedicated to improving community health and safety, by addressing challenges related to drug use through evidence-based solutions. It focuses on overdose prevention, convening the global campaign International Overdose Awareness Day, publishing Australia’s Annual Overdose Report and offering training through its Community Overdose Prevention Education (COPE) program to address opioid overdoses, including naloxone use. Current cannabis control is harmful and not cost effective. The Institute prioritises better community understanding and the introduction of carefully regulated adult access to cannabis. The Institute collaborates with governments, healthcare providers, law enforcement, community organisations and others to develop innovative, evidence-based strategies that reduce harm.

The role

As a Non-Executive Director at Penington Institute, you will play a critical role in shaping the strategic direction of an organisation committed to advancing evidence-based approaches to drug issues. Working to lead a diverse and passionate Board, you will provide governance oversight, ensure fiscal accountability, and guide the organisation in achieving its mission of reducing harm and improving community health. You will be instrumental in ensuring that the Institute continues to operate with independence, empathy, and a strong focus on practical, impactful solutions.

The organisation is seeking individual with strong experience in governance, strategic thinking, and business leadership. Ideal candidates will have expertise in financial management, communication, marketing, and possess valuable networks within the philanthropic sector, business community, and/or government. A proven track record of board effectiveness and a commitment to governance excellence are essential. Previous experience as a Chair or in stakeholder engagement is highly desirable. Most importantly, candidates must share a genuine interest in the Institute’s mission and bring empathy and understanding of the complex issues surrounding drug use.

To apply

People for Purpose is partnering with Penington Institute to lead the search for this role.

  1. We invite you to read the Board Pack. To know more about the organisation, please visit their website and ACNC profile.
  2. 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].
  3. 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 Penington Institute. A considered cover letter will be an important part of your application.

Applications close at 5pm on Sunday, 23 February.

If you are viewing this opportunity via LinkedIn, we invite you to visit the People for Purpose website under Current opportunities for further information.