Chief Executive Officer – IWSS

Windsor Group has been commissioned by the Immigrant Women’s Support Service (IWSS) to manage this important assignment. Windsor Group is a profit-for-purpose providing expert advice, HR services, executive search and recruitment services for executive, permanent and temporary/contract roles across nonprofit, commercial and government sectors.  

Established in 1992, the Migrant Women’s Emergency Support Service Inc. (MWESS Inc.) is an incorporated, not-for profit community organisation operating as the Immigrant Women’s Support Service (IWSS), a specialist service response for immigrant and refugee women from non-English speaking backgrounds and their children who have experienced domestic and/or sexual violence. The service also operates a universal emergency relief service.  

Operating for over 40 years, IWSS is well established in community sector domestic violence (DV) and sexual assault. The unique feature of working in areas of both sexual assault and DV is rare and has set IWSS apart in positive ways, although it can complicate service delivery.  

Through multiple funding streams, IWSS is expected to perform in both DV and sexual violence operating in a CALD community which adds yet another dimension. The main requirement is to provide direct client services – counselling therapeutic, housing emergency relief supplies which extends beyond their client base.  

As with most community organisations, IWSS works within advocacy and training and has done so for some time. As an organisation, they are well respected and well known within government and Qld DV, however they’ve not yet been allowed a public voice which they are hoping will soon change.  

The last four years has seen increased funding which has allowed them to reposition themselves financially within the community, offering specialist services and moving into becoming a Centre of Excellence, improving the narrative of sexual assault and DV from those within CALD backgrounds.  

The key goal is for those impacted by DV and sexual assault to be able to walk in and receive expert service – ensuring needs are translated into the political sphere and the system reflects the needs and challenges of these women. 

Client website

ACNC Profile

Windsor Group and IWSS are both committed to equal opportunity employment practices. Applications for the position of Chief Executive Officer will be assessed on merit and selected applicants invited to interview. An offer of appointment will be made to the applicants whose written application and interview responses best demonstrate their ability to meet the requirements of the role. 

Due to the nature of the services provided by IWSS, the organisation has adopted Section 25 of the Queensland Anti-Discrimination Act 1991, which enables the employment of women only on the basis of ‘genuine occupational requirements’. 

This role does not have a closing date, but we recommend you submit your application as soon as possible. Windsor Group will be reviewing applications and aim to conduct interviews the week commencing 4th November 2024. 

To date, IWSS has been a small organisation focused on service delivery, however the increase in funding has resulted in massive growth which has identified various challenges including the need for new facilities as the current premises are not fit for purpose. 

There is also great demand to partner with other organisations, providing opportunities for continued growth with significant-sized projects, which is both challenging and exciting.  

Noting the importance of positioning services now and in the future, the CEO will have strategic oversight, will be hands-on with the need to meet service commitments. Meeting funding responsibilities is key.  

This is a great opportunity for someone to make a difference and make a mark. Opportunity is there because of IWSS’ specialist services and invitations to be part of key stakeholder groups where they are sought for consultation.  

IWSS has a position on a new DV peak body, representing themselves at national level advisory groups. This is not always the case in small organisations, but their specialist nature opens doors. 

With DV and sexual assault now on the global stage, having credibility at govt level. They’ve moved into an area where the community is demanding change but need to keep core voices in there. This is key for IWSS and an exciting opportunity. Immediate access to influence is a strong selling point to the CEO role.

Position Description

The CEO role is complex – working in domestic and sexual violence, multi-cultural community, language, traumatised clients – but it is also a well-supported role. What is important are the optics in who is leading IWSS. It must be someone who can handle conflict, both within the organisation and externally.  

What is important is a CEO with a track record, a depth of experience and the ability to be flexible, noting the sector is going through a time of great change. You must also be able to demonstrate: 

• Strong HR knowledge essential 

• Balance of strategic skills and day-to-day operations 

• Understanding the dynamics of working with a diverse cultural team is essential 

• Funding reporting and obligations is key to this role 

• Must have knowledge of direct service delivery 

• Leadership capabilities – the ability to take both organisation and staff forward  

• Networking and understanding domestic violence/sexual assault is mandatory  

• Flexible with the ability to respond to rapid change 

• CALD background desirable 

• High EQ and comfortable with self is essential 

When submitting your application, ensure your application includes: 

• An up-to-date resume (in Word format) 

• A covering letter (in Word format) outlining your interest and expertise relevant to the role 

Submit your application quoting reference number KJCEIW to apply@windsor-group.com.au. For more information please contact Kaye Jeffers on 07 3211 0001. Your application will be acknowledged by email within one business day. 

View the live job advertisement here: https://www.windsor-group.com.au/job/chief-exectuive-officer/

Or quick apply now: https://adr.to/3zrfoai