Operations and Communications Manager

ABOUT US

At the Gum Tree Foundation, we’re dedicated to creating transformative change for people and planet. We are a philanthropic trust committed to regenerating nature, addressing the root causes of inequality and environmental destruction and progressing decolonisation.

We are focused on long-term outcomes and relationships. We know this involves being patient, thinking deeply, being flexible and taking necessary risks. We have large ambition but know we’re at the beginning of a journey with a long way to go. That’s why we invest in the development and capacity of our team to ensure ongoing learning and growth.

Trust and connection are central to everything we do. We build strong partnerships and provide flexible funding and support to First Nations, environmental and humanitarian organisations in Australia and internationally. Most of these organisations bring about change through on-the-ground action, education, collaboration and advocacy.

Please note: Our office is in Kangaroo Valley, NSW. We will consider hybrid working arrangements for candidates who can spend a minimum of 2 days a fortnight in the office.

THE ROLE

We have big ambitions for impact in the coming years, and we are looking for an Operations and Communications Manager to fill a critical role in our small but growing team. The successful candidate will oversee both internal processes and external communications, ensuring alignment with the foundation’s mission and goals.

The Operations and Communications Manager would develop and implement organisational and administrative processes and practices to enhance collaboration and communication for effective decision-making. They would shape and amplify our communications and ensure smooth day-to-day operations of the foundation. At times, they would also support projects and programs in our focus areas, often in collaboration with our partner organisations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Establish and maintain effective organisational systems e.g., for stakeholder relationship management (CRM), donations, project management, budgeting, record-keeping and collaboration.
• Develop and constantly improve organisational processes, records and resources for efficiency and effectiveness.
• Manage donations processes including overseeing payment process and record-keeping.
• Support with day-to-day operational activities, including scheduling meetings and administration.
• Advance existing – and design new – ‘ways of working’ to ensure a high functioning and collaborative team environment.
• Support with the process, tracking, communication and reporting of donations to partner organisations.
• Create and implement a communications strategy to support our goals
• Develop and distribute external and internal communications materials eg. new website, board papers, funding proposals 
• Amplify the work of partner organisations, e.g., through advocacy, communications, events and references.
• Build and maintain relationships with advisors and external contractors.
• Deliver events, projects and programs that support our goals, often in collaboration with partner organisations.
• Coordinate meetings, workshops and events, ensuring all logistical and communication needs are met.
• Attend select partner events to represent the Gum Tree Foundation.

We are committed to building an organisation that fosters belonging and justice, and know that we can’t achieve our mission without this. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, people of colour, women, people with disability, people from LGBTIQA+ communities and people with lived experience of economic and racial injustice.

Please note: Applicants must have the right to work in Australia. Learn more and and apply via Ethical Jobs.