Lead philanthropic investment advancing equity, justice and First Nations leadership for women and girls.
- Work closely with the CEO in a leadership role
- Leverage your philanthropic experience for impact
- Build trusted relationships with diverse stakeholders
The organisation
The Judith Neilson Foundation is an Australian private philanthropic foundation investing in long term solutions that strengthen communities and address inequality. Our work spans Australia, Africa and global innovation.
In Australia, the Foundation focuses on advancing equity for women and girls by strengthening services, supporting First Nations leadership and improving access to justice. Across Africa, the Foundation invests in public health systems, inclusive economic growth and leadership. Through its Innovation portfolio, it backs bold ideas that enable systemic change.
Founded by Judith Neilson, the Foundation supports long term, locally grounded solutions through trusted partnerships.
The role
As a member of the Foundation’s Executive Team, the Program Director – Australia holds strategic accountability for shaping and delivering the Foundation’s Australia portfolio.
Leveraging deep experience in strategic philanthropic grantmaking and partnership development, the role exercises disciplined stewardship of capital, identifying high leverage opportunities aligned with the Foundation’s strategy and the Founder’s intent. Leading within a small, high performing team, the Program Director provides clear direction and mentorship while ensuring rigorous execution. Acting as a trusted adviser to the CEO and Founder, the Program Director brings sound judgment, sector intelligence and cultural acuity to investment decisions. The role builds and manages trusted relationships with diverse stakeholders, including First Nations leaders, justice sector partners and peer funders, strengthening collaboration and maximising systemic impact for women and girls.
To apply
People for Purpose is partnering with The Judith Neilson Foundation to lead the search for this role.
- We invite you to read the position description (https://shorturl.at/5wc9X). To review Judith Neilson Foundations impact reports, 2030 Strategy 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 the Judith Neilson Foundation. A considered cover letter will be an important part of your application.
Applications close at 5pm on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.