Position Title: Chief Executive Officer, Mercy Foundation
Reports to: Chair of the Board of Directors
Location: 40 Rocklands Road Wollstonecraft NSW 2065
Employment type: Full Time Employment 37.5 hours per week, 6 months probationary period
Salary: Base salary $120,000 – $130,000 per annum plus superannuation, salary packaging available.
About the Mercy Foundation
The Mercy Foundation is committed to social justice and driving structural change, to bring about greater social equity and inclusion in the Australian community. The current areas of focus are ending homelessness, ending modern slavery and addressing social justice issues in communities across Australia. The Mercy Foundation is especially concerned with addressing disadvantage experienced by women.
The Foundation achieves its mission through strategic grant-making, advocacy, education and research.
Established by the Sisters of Mercy North Sydney, the organisation has a strong commitment to Mercy values and is dedicated to continuing the charism and legacy of the Sisters.
The Mercy Foundation is a Ministry of Mercy Partners.
Commitment to Safeguarding
The Mercy Foundation acknowledges and recognises that every person, whether child or adult, is valued and respected and has the right to feel safe. We have a zero tolerance to abuse. We are committed to building safe environments for all children and adults who interact with the Mercy Foundation.
All Board members, staff, contractors and volunteers are expected to uphold, practice and meet the Mercy Foundation’s Safeguarding commitment and be vigilant in protecting all who engage with the Mercy Foundation.
Purpose of the Role
Accountable to the Mercy Foundation Board, the Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of the Mercy Foundation. The CEO ensures that the Mercy Foundation fulfils its mission and social justice objectives in alignment with the Mercy charism, complies with all legislative and governance requirements, and delivers effective grants programs, advocacy, and partnerships that advance social justice, particularly in the areas of homelessness and modern slavery.
Note that the Chief Executive Officer is appointed as the Company Secretary by the Mercy Foundation Board.
Selection Criteria
The successful candidate will bring:
- Values-driven leadership aligned with Mercy charism and a strong commitment to social justice
- Relevant tertiary qualifications in management, social work, or a related discipline OR equivalent experience, knowledge and skills
- Significant senior leadership experience within the not-for-profit, community, or social justice sector
- Demonstrated strategic and systems-thinking capability
- Proven expertise in governance, financial management, and regulatory compliance
- Highly developed communication skills, with a proven ability to engage and influence a wide range of stakeholders
The ideal candidate will also demonstrate deep knowledge and expertise in developing evidence-based strategies to end homelessness and/or end modern slavery in Australia.
How to apply
Read through the detailed CEO Position Description and prepare a cover letter of no more than two pages outlining how you meet the selection criteria above, and any experience or skills that align with the detailed Position Description.
Email your cover letter along with your resume to Annabel Senior, Chair, Mercy Foundation via email office@mercyfoundation.com.au.
Closing Date: Friday, 27 February 2026
This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected philanthropic foundation and contribute to lasting social change.
