Strategic Engagements and Growth Development Director
Fixed-term, Part-time (2 days per week)
Organisational context
The Strategic Engagements and Growth Development Director of the Sleep Health Foundation (SHF) will report directly to the CEO and the SHF Board and will provide overall leadership in the delivery of the strategic relationships and business development priorities of the Board.
Sleep Health Foundation
The SHF is a not-for-profit health promotion charity that aims to raise community awareness about sleep and its common disorders, and to improve public health and safety. The SHF strives to deepen community understanding of the importance of sleep for health and performance; why sleep disorders need professional diagnosis and treatment; and, to provide information about common sleep difficulties and how to address them. As Australia’s leading advocate for the sleep health of the community, the SHF also facilitates research, especially on topics relevant to its health promotion mission, both in the community and in the workplace. At a pivotal moment in our organisational journey, we are seeking a strategic, proactive, and relationship‑driven leader who can secure the partnerships and funding required to ensure our long-term viability and growth. This role is central to strengthening our financial sustainability and expanding our reach.
Overall position purpose
The Strategic Engagements and Growth Development Director is responsible for driving revenue growth, building strategic partnerships, and securing funding opportunities that align with the Sleep Health Foundation’s mission. This role combines high‑level strategy with hands‑on execution, requiring a seasoned professional with a strong track record in business development ideally within the not‑for‑profit, social impact, or adjacent sectors.
Key Responsibilities
The Strategic Engagements and Growth Development Director will:
- Identify, pursue, and secure new funding opportunities including grants, philanthropic partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and help expand our fee‑for‑service offerings within our Speaker Program.
- Revise our existing business model to ensure a sustainable revenue strategy that diversifies income streams.
- Cultivate new and maintain existing relationships with key stakeholders including donors, corporate partners, government agencies, community organisations, and peak bodies.
- Represent the organisation at events, meetings, and sector forums to elevate visibility and influence.
- Develop partnership proposals, pitches, and engagement plans tailored to stakeholder needs and motivations.
- Work closely with the CEO and Board to shape organisational strategy and identify growth opportunities.
- Lead the preparation of high-quality grant applications, tenders, and funding proposals.
- Support the development of materials, campaigns, and digital content that strengthen engagement and attract supporters and collaborative partnerships.
Supervisory Responsibilities
There will not be an immediate need to supervise other staff but as the organisation expands, and the role develops, there will be a need to supervise and manage staff. Previous management experience is desirable.
Governance and Strategy
A revised strategic plan to drive a sustainable business model for the Sleep Health Foundation will need to be developed in conjunction with the board. A short status report will be expected at every board meeting. Board meetings are approximately once every two months.
Communications and Stakeholder Engagement
- Be the point of contact for all current and potential partners
- Identify opportunities to secure new partners and collaborations
- Provide regular updates to stakeholders on SHF activities
- Organise regular meetings and networking events with stakeholders
Key Selection Criteria, Experience and Qualifications
Essential
- Demonstrated success in business development, or revenue‑generating roles, ideally within the not‑for‑profit or social impact sector.
- Proven ability to secure significant funding through grants, partnerships, sponsorships, or commercial opportunities.
- Exceptional relationship‑building skills with the ability to engage confidently with senior stakeholders.
- Strong strategic thinking with the ability to translate ideas into actionable plans.
- Excellent written communication skills, including experience preparing proposals, pitches, and grant submissions.
- High level of initiative, resilience, and adaptability and comfortable working in a small, resource‑constrained environment.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results under pressure.
- Experience managing and developing high-performing teams that work remotely with a focus on collaboration, accountability and professional growth.
- Strong track record in building and maintaining relationships with high-value partners, funders, and stakeholders, including at executive and board level
Desirable
- Experience in organisational sustainability planning or social enterprise development.
- Existing networks within corporate wellbeing, government health and safety, or corporate social responsibility.
- Understanding of impact measurement and reporting frameworks.
- A degree in business, communications, marketing or a related field is desirable.
Personal Attributes
- Purpose‑driven and aligned with the organisation’s mission.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive, solutions‑focused approach.
- Confident communicator who can inspire, influence, and negotiate.
- Collaborative team player who thrives in a small, agile organisation.
- Strategic thinker with strong commercial acumen.
What We Offer
- Opportunity to play a pivotal role in securing the future of a mission‑driven organisation.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Supportive, values‑driven culture.
- Scope to shape strategy and make a visible, lasting impact.
Interested? Send your CV and cover letter to our CEO, Dr Moira Junge, via ceo@sleephealthfoundation.org.au