About the role: 

The Victorian Collaborative Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead the delivery of the business and governance aspects of the Centre's operations, as directed by the CEO and consistent with the Centre's Strategic Plan 2024-2027 and legislated functions as set out in the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 (Vic).

Reporting to the CEO, the COO will oversee all Centre operations to support the development of a sustainable and influential organisation with the capabilities, culture, resources and ways of working to deliver Centre functions efficiently and in agile and timely ways. This will include delivery of operations supporting the Centre's current priorities of (i) mental health translational research, and (ii) system-wide training and capability development of Victoria's mental health workforce, to innovate service delivery and models of care.

Working across the organisation and as a member of the Centre's executive leadership team, the COO will be responsible for the operational, financial, governance, human resources, risk management, communications and reporting functions of the Centre. This will include strengthening organisational systems and governance, and supporting the integration of lived experience leadership and expertise to assist the Centre to deliver lasting sector-wide impact. It will also involve ensuring Centre compliance with relevant legislative and reporting obligations, including the Financial Management Act 1994, the Freedom of Information Act 1982 and the Public Administration Act 2004.

About you:

• Provide best practice governance advice to support the CEO, the Board and its sub-committees in their governance responsibilities, and ensure the delivery of effective and timely secretariat functions.
• Provide financial leadership, including the management of the annual budget, monitoring of financial performance, and provision of high-quality financial advice to the CEO and Board. Ensure the Collaborative Centre meets its financial management obligations and reporting requriements.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of a robust risk management framework. Ensure compliance, internal controls, and audit functions are operating effectively and aligned with regulatory and governance requirements.
• Lead the delivery and integration of all corporate and business support functions of the Centre, including operational planning, legal services, finance, contract management and procurement, facilities management, ICT, administrative support, information management, reporting, and people and culture. These functions are currently delivered through a mix of internal staff, contracted services, and a service agreement with the Department of Health. Within the first six months, assess and implement the most efficient and effective model for delivering corporate services, balancing internal and external capabilities and budget.
• Work with the CEO and the Centre's executive team to deliver high-impact engagement strategies, partnerships, events, and Centre communications. Build effective relationships with the Department of Health and community and sector partners to support the CEO in representing the Collaborative Centre as an efficient and accountable statutory authority.

What we offer: 

• The opportunity to perform meaningful work, making direct contributions toward enabling Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world.
• A wide range of growth and development opportunities within the department and wider Victorian Public Service & Sector.
• A strong commitment to work-life balance, including a diverse array of flexible working arrangements.

How to apply: 

Applications should include a resume and a cover letter. Click the ‘Apply' button to view further information about the role including key contact details and the advertisement closing date. 

We are committed to developing and supporting a workforce that is well equipped and highly motivated to provide responsive and quality services to all Victorians. We continue to build an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity of backgrounds and differences to realise the potential of our employees for innovation and delivering services aimed at enhancing the lives of all Victorians. All roles can be worked flexibly and we encourage applications from Aboriginal people, people with disability, LGBTIQ+ and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Please contact us if you require any adjustments to participate in the recruitment process at inclusion@health.vic.gov.au. For more information on our commitment to inclusion and diversity see inclusion and diversity at the Department of Health.

Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks. Information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence in line with our Privacy Policy.