The organisation
Retina Australia is a member-based, volunteer-driven national organisation and the leading voice for Australians affected by inherited retinal disease (IRD). For more than 35 years, Retina Australia has supported individuals, funded pioneering research, and advocated for better awareness, diagnosis, and treatment of IRDs. Retina Australia works alongside Australia’s brightest researchers, clinicians, and global partners, to help drive progress towards their vision: “a world without inherited blindness”.
 
The opportunity
Are you a purpose-driven, strategic leader ready to guide the next phase of growth for a passionate and respected not-for-profit?

Retina Australia is seeking an inspiring Chief Executive Officer to champion our mission, build partnerships, and amplify the voice of people living with inherited retinal disease. Reporting directly to the Board, the CEO will design and implement Retina Australia’s strategy, diversifying income streams through fundraising and partnerships, strengthening advocacy and awareness, and ensure the organisation continues to empower people and fund high-impact research.
This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment, balances vision with operational discipline, and brings energy, empathy, and strong relationship-building skills to a small yet dedicated team.
 
About you
We are seeking a credible and inspiring leader who combines strategic acumen with authenticity and heart. You will be experienced in leading complex, mission-driven, or member-based organisations and have a proven track record in building partnerships, fundraising, and advocacy.

You are financially astute, comfortable engaging with a Board, and skilled at turning strategy into results. You understand the value of community and collaboration, and you can connect confidently across the health, research, government, and philanthropic sectors.
Lived experience of blindness or vision loss will be highly regarded.  We actively encourage talented candidates from the blind and low vision community to apply, while warmly welcoming applications from all talented leaders who meet the essential capabilities.  Most importantly, you share our belief that through research, collaboration, and advocacy, we can change the future for Australians affected by inherited retinal disease.
 
What’s on offer
A competitive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate, commensurate with skills and experience. The role can be either full-time or part-time.
Retina Australia is headquartered in Melbourne at Ross House, however there is an ability for this role to work remotely from other east coast locations with hybrid flexibility. Regular travel may be required to attend events, and engagements across the country.
 
How to apply
If you are a positive, collaborative, and values driven leader ready to make a profound impact, we invite you to apply. Help us shape a future where inherited retinal disease can be prevented, treated, or cured, and where every person affected is supported and empowered.
 
For a confidential discussion or role related questions, please contact Simon Wybenga or Jacqui Fine (0468 042 341) of The Orchard Talent Group by email retinaaustralia@orchardtalent.com.au. To apply please submit your current CV and a cover letter highlighting your suitability by email to retinaaustralia@orchardtalent.com.au.
 
Applications close 16th November 2025


The Orchard Talent Group acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging, for they hold the memories, traditions, culture and hopes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.