The organisation
Big Fat Smile is a leading, values-driven, not-for-profit organisation providing early learning and care, national inclusion services, community programs and family engagement initiatives. With around 650 employees and a large multi-disciplinary workforce, Big Fat Smile operates more than 40 centres and services across NSW, from the Illawarra through to the Sutherland region. A trusted partner to families, communities and government, Big Fat Smile enriches the lives and minds of children and families, operating with purpose, not profit.
The opportunity
Reporting to the CEO and leading a team of six direct reports (and up to 50 staff overall), the Executive Lead, Programs and Partnerships will oversee a broad and high-impact portfolio. The role will:
- Lead the organisation’s safeguarding strategy and position BFS as a sector leader in child safe practice
- Drive inclusion and community engagement programs that improve outcomes for disadvantaged children and families
- Refresh and deliver the Reconciliation Action Plan and First Nations engagement strategy
- Lead business development opportunities, including grants and tenders
- Shape client engagement and communications strategies that amplify BFS’s profile and community impact
- Represent BFS with government, universities, peak bodies and community partners, strengthening advocacy and system leadership
- Partner across the executive team to identify growth opportunities, including new centres and services
- Inspire, mentor and empower a diverse multidisciplinary team, fostering collaboration and accountability
About you
You are a strategic and values-led senior leader with breadth across programs, partnerships, safeguarding, inclusion, or community development. You bring:
- Executive leadership and change management experience in complex, multi-stakeholder settings
- Deep commitment to inclusion, reconciliation and child safety
- A collaborative and collegial leadership style – visible, hands-on when needed, and able to inspire confidence across diverse teams
- Personal alignment with BFS’s values: Safety, Leadership, Integrity, Inclusion, Child-centric and Connection
- Proven ability to build trusted relationships with government, community, and sector leaders
- Strong financial and business development acumen, including managing tenders and grants
- Relevant tertiary qualifications (Early Education, Business, Community, or related) and WWCC
What’s on Offer
There’s a lot to smile about at Big Fat Smile:
- Hybrid working and flexible arrangements (50% in office)
- 6 weeks paid parental leave and 60% discount on early learning & care
- A child-first, for-purpose culture where values drive decisions and impact
- Extensive professional development, leadership forums and study support
- Salary Packaging
How to Apply
For a confidential discussion or role related questions, please contact Lincoln Gould of The Orchard Talent Group on 02 9157 6231 or email lincoln@orchardtalent.com.au. To apply please submit your current CV via the link. Please note applicants must have a legal right to work in Australia.
Applications close 5pm, 26th September, 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.