SAGE Science Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as Chair of its Board of Directors, starting from September 2025.

This is an exciting opportunity to guide a national non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing gender equity, diversity, and inclusion in the tertiary education and research sector.

About SAGE

SAGE is a leading national initiative driving systemic change to improve gender equity and diversity in the tertiary education and research sector. Established to implement the Athena Swan Charter in Australia, SAGE supports institutions in creating inclusive workplaces through rigorous accreditation and evidence-based action.

Building on this success, SAGE is expanding its impact to the Vocational Education and Training Sector (VET) and Medical Research Institutes (MRIs), particularly focusing on equity, diversity and inclusion in STEMM. This next phase will extend our proven approach to a broader range of institutions, ensuring more workplaces can benefit from structured, data-driven strategies to foster equity and inclusion.

The Role

As Chair of the Board of Directors, you will play a key role in ensuring the Board effectively fulfils its fiduciary, legal, and ethical responsibilities while advancing the organisation’s vision, purpose, and long-term success.

Working closely with the CEO, Board members, and key stakeholders, you will lead strategic initiatives, uphold financial integrity, and cultivate a culture of accountability, innovation, and strong governance. This includes:

  • Providing high-level leadership and strategic direction for SAGE’s mission and impact.
  • Serving as the primary liaison between the Board and the CEO, fostering a strong, collaborative working relationship.
  • Providing strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial integrity and long-term sustainability.
  • Supporting the CEO and management team in executing the organisation’s strategy and objectives.
  • Ensuring strong governance, financial sustainability, and risk management practices.
  • Engaging with key stakeholders across government, industry, and the research sector to drive partnerships and advocacy.
  • Advocating for the organisation and its strategic priorities in public and private forums. Promoting and championing gender equity, diversity and inclusion nationally and internationally.

The initial term is 3 years, with the possibility of renewal. An annual allowance is provided to support the responsibilities of the role.

The Chair will be expected to attend and lead approximately five Board meetings per year, meet with the CEO on fortnightly basis, as well as occasional subcommittee meetings and events. Additional time may be required for preparation and engagement outside of formal meetings

Who We Are Looking For

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

  • Extensive board and governance experience, preferably as a Chair or senior director.  Experience in the non-profit or government sector would be an advantage.
  • A strong understanding of gender equity, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Proven leadership skills, with the ability to engage and influence at the highest levels in government and the private sector.
  • Expertise in facilitating meetings, building consensus, and supporting effective decision-making.
  • Experience in strategic planning, risk management, and financial oversight.
  • Exceptional stakeholder management skills, with a demonstrated ability to build collaboration across sectors.
  • A deep commitment to SAGE’s mission and to driving meaningful, long-term change.
  • Desirable: Knowledge of the tertiary education and research landscape, including higher education, vocational education and training (VET), medical research institutes, and publicly funded research organisations.

Time Commitment and Terms

This is a non-executive role with an expected commitment of approximately 25–35 days per year, including board meetings, strategy sessions, and stakeholder engagements. The initial term is three years, with the possibility of a one term renewal.

How to Apply

To express interest in the Chair position, please submit a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and a current CV to janin.bredehoeft@sciencegenderequity.org.au by Friday 23th of May.

For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact janin.bredehoeft@sciencegenderequity.org.au.