Head of Finance / Company Secretary

• Approximately 12 Hours Per Week

Help shape the future of childhood brain tumour research.

Are you an experienced finance and governance professional looking for a meaningful executive role where your expertise can make a genuine difference?

We are seeking an exceptional Head of Finance & Company Secretary to join our leadership team. Reporting directly to the CEO, this is a unique opportunity to combine strategic financial leadership with corporate governance in a purpose-driven organisation dedicated to improving outcomes for children with brain tumours and supporting their families.

This permanent part-time role (~12 hours per week) offers flexibility and the opportunity to contribute at an executive level while maintaining work-life balance.

About Us

Inspired by a big heart and brain, the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation (RCD) was created in June 2013 in the memory of Robert ‘Connor’ Dawes. RCD’s mission supports paediatric brain tumour matters in the areas of world-class research; patient care support like music therapy; and development to inspire the next generation of brain cancer practitioners and researchers. 

As a small, collaborative organisation, every member of our team has a direct impact on achieving our mission.

About the Role

As Head of Finance & Company Secretary, you will provide strategic financial leadership while ensuring the Foundation maintains the highest standards of governance, compliance and accountability.

Working closely with the CEO, Board and Finance Committee, you will oversee all aspects of finance, risk management, compliance and corporate governance, while supporting organisational sustainability and strategic decision-making.

You will also act as Company Secretary, providing governance advice to the Board, coordinating Board and Committee processes, maintaining statutory records and ensuring compliance with regulatory obligations.

This is a hands-on executive role suited to someone who enjoys both strategic thinking and operational delivery.

Key Responsibilities

You will:

• Lead the Foundation's financial strategy, budgeting and forecasting.
• Prepare insightful financial reports, analysis and Board papers.
• Oversee financial management, accounting, payroll, cash flow and audit processes.
• Manage organisational risk, compliance and internal controls.
• Monitor progress against the Foundation's Strategic Plan and organisational performance.
• Support grant, research funding and donor reporting requirements.
• Act as Company Secretary, coordinating Board and Committee meetings, governance processes and statutory obligations.
• Provide governance advice to the CEO and Board.
• Oversee the Foundation's human resources function and support workforce planning and compliance.
• Lead and mentor the Finance & HR Officer.

About You

You are a strategic finance leader who enjoys working closely with Boards and executive teams. You combine commercial acumen with strong governance knowledge and are motivated by working for an organisation that creates meaningful social impact.

You'll bring:

• CPA, CA or equivalent accounting qualification.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Accounting, Finance, Business, Governance, Law or a related discipline.
• Significant senior finance leadership experience.
• Experience supporting Boards, Finance Committees or acting as Company Secretary.
• Strong knowledge of Australian Accounting Standards, ACNC requirements and charity governance.
• Experience with budgeting, financial reporting, audit and risk management.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• High levels of integrity, professionalism and attention to detail.

Experience within the not-for-profit, charitable, research or health sectors will be highly regarded.  .

Why Join Us?

This role offers something increasingly rare—a chance to make a meaningful impact without committing to a traditional executive workload.

This is an opportunity to: 

• Make a tangible difference to children and families affected by brain tumours.
• Enjoy a flexible part-time executive role with genuine autonomy.
• Be part of a values-driven organisation committed to excellence, collaboration and innovation.

How to Apply 

If you're an experienced finance leader looking to use your expertise where it truly matters, we'd love to hear from you.  

To submit your application please click 'Apply Now' by the closing date.

Applications will be assessed as they are received, and early applications are encouraged.

A position description is attached.