Principal Engagement , Early Years

Minderoo Foundation takes on tough, persistent issues with the potential to drive massive change. We incubate ideas, advocate for systems change and accelerate impact. We push the limits of what is believed possible.

Minderoo Foundation is proudly Australian, independent, forward thinking and seeks effective, scalable solutions. Through bold, collaborative and selfless action, we seek to dismantle the systems that entrench inequality and advocate for a fairer future.

Minderoo Communities The Communities Focus Area is dedicated to creating a future where all children reach their full potential in thriving communities. The 2030 Strategy centres efforts around the holistic needs of children, and their families and caregivers. Bodies of work have been developed to ensure society is attuned to these needs and the importance of supporting children, young people and their families through vibrant and connected communities. An additional workstream focused on empowering families and communities to attain economic dignity is under consideration. The Communities Focus Area will be strengthening its place-based, First Nations and partnerships engagement approach to these issues

Job Description

Reporting to the Director, Early Years you will actively contribute to a high performing team and drive impact by working productively and efficiently, collaborating closely with other Focus & Enabler areas and Corporate Services as part of our matrix structure and championing our One Minderoo Culture. Focusing where applicable on partners, stakeholders and beneficiaries to increase the value of the Early Years. As Principal Engagement and Impact, Early Years, you will work closely with the Director of Early Years to drive a whole child strategy that fosters, intersectoral and interdisciplinary collaborations and solutions, as well as changes in practices and behaviours across key stakeholder groups at various levels. This position will work closely with the Gender Equality, Natural Ecosystems, and Impact Missions teams within Minderoo

Your Responsibilities will include:

• Identification of suitable strategies and partners to leverage intersections with various systems/sectors in support of optimal child development and caregivers’ wellbeing
• Lead synergies across the various capability building, awareness building and research initiatives to deepen impact at national, state and community levels
• Support the development and implementation of capability building initiatives and projects aimed at fostering changes in attitudes, practices and behaviours at various levels of the system
• Grants management and partnership building (including contract negotiation/preparation, financial tracking of relevant portfolios)

You will bring

• Subject Matter expertise in Early Childhood Development, and/or caregivers’ wellbeing, and/or behaviour and systemic change with a minimum of 10 years' experience working in these fields.
• Proven experience leading research, awareness raising and behavioural change initiatives.
• Demonstrated knowledge of related issues and understanding of the complexity and challenges associated with the holistic development of children, caregiver’s wellbeing and intergenerational cycles of disadvantage.
• Proven ability to communicate complex issues with clarity and impact.
• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood development, psychology, social sciences or similar required.

Next Steps

Please attach your resume and a cover letter explaining why you interested in this opportunity.

Applications close: 5 September 2025

Please note we reserve the right to extend closing date and/or close applications early should a suitable candidate be identified.

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Minderoo Foundation embraces Equal Opportunity and promotes diversity. We actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply.