Chief Executive Officer (Interim)

Playgroup Victoria, an organisation with more than 50 years of history supporting children and families, is seeking an experienced interim CEO to lead the organisation through a defined period of transition. The appointment is initially for 12 months with potential for extension or conversion to a permanent role.

The incoming leader will rapidly assess the operating environment, drive a new strategic planning cycle, and ensure sound financial, governance and risk management. They will represent Playgroup Victoria externally, strengthen relationships with government and sector partners, and build capability and accountability across the team while progressing existing projects and funding opportunities.

• Work strategically with the Board to establish and progress priorities for the interim period
• Advocate for and represent the organisation externally, building relationships with government and sector stakeholders
• Collaborate with Playgroup Australia and partners to progress funding opportunities and longer-term sustainability
• Provide clear, inclusive leadership to a diverse team, building capability and accountability
• Ensure sound financial, governance, contract, risk and operational management
• Help position the organisation for its next strategic phase

• Proven experience as a CEO, Director or senior executive in a complex organisation
• Ability to quickly assess organisational strengths, gaps and priorities
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, including at Board and government levels
• Sound commercial acumen and financial management capability
• Demonstrated change leadership and comfort making decisions in periods of uncertainty
• Experience in the not-for-profit, early childhood, family or community sectors is highly regarded

HR Success is a recruitment and executive search firm that places senior leaders across a range of sectors. This role is advertised on behalf of Playgroup Victoria, a purpose-driven not-for-profit organisation with over 50 years of experience supporting Victorian children and families through playgroup programs.