The Organisation
Challenge Community Services is a long-established, community-based not-for-profit with more than 65 years of history supporting individuals, families and communities across New South Wales and Queensland. Founded in Tamworth in 1958, Challenge now supports thousands of people across more than 100 communities, delivering integrated services spanning disability supports, foster care, allied health and supported employment, underpinned by a strong regional presence and a values-led workforce.
The Opportunity
The Board is seeking to appoint a Chief Executive Officer to lead Challenge through its next phase. Reporting directly to the Board, the CEO holds overall accountability for organisational performance, strategic delivery, service quality, financial sustainability and community impact. This is a significant appointment which will require sound judgement, strong governance capability and the ability to guide a large organisation operating across disability and child and family services through ongoing sector change.
The CEO will work closely with the Board to bring Challenge’s strategic priorities to life, including strengthening core operations, expanding reach for impact and leading with purpose. Central to the role is maintaining strong alignment with the Board, providing transparent leadership, and reinforcing Challenge’s connection to the communities it serves, particularly across regional areas. The CEO will play a visible role in building trust with stakeholders, partners and regulators while ensuring the organisation remains sustainable and resilient over time. As the CEO, you will be part of the Alliance 20, where you will work together as a collective voice.
About You
You are an experienced executive leader bringing a strong background in human services and the ability to lead organisations of relevant scale. You bring capability across service delivery, workforce leadership, governance and financial stewardship, and are comfortable balancing quality, sustainability and community expectations through periods of change.
Your leadership style is authentic, people-focused and grounded in the community. You are comfortable working closely with Boards, engaging the community, and leading with transparency and accountability. You are motivated to embed yourself in the culture of the organisation and the communities it serves, and to lead in a way that strengthens foundations, builds confidence and supports long-term impact. With a head office in Tamworth, understanding the nuances of operating in a regional environment is paramount for this appointment and the successful candidate will be required to be based in Tamworth.
How to apply
If you are a values-led, credible executive leader motivated by community impact and purpose, we invite you to apply. For a confidential discussion or role-related questions, please contact Simon Wybenga
or Josh Kyle
of The Orchard Talent Group at challenge@orchardtalent.com.au.
To apply, please submit your current CV and a brief cover letter (maximum two pages) outlining your motivation and the skills you would bring to Challenge Community Services via email. Please note applicants must have the right to work in Australia.
Applications close Sunday 15th March, 2026.
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.
Chief Executive Officer
Contract Type:
Full Time
Location:
Tamworth
Industry:
Disability & NDIS
Contact Name:
Simon Wybenga
Contact Email:
simon@orchardtalent.com.au
Contact Phone:
9157 6219
Date Published:
10.02.2026