Chief Executive Officer

• Longreach, Queensland (Relocation support provided)
• 3-year fixed term (possible extension)
• Protecting the Lake Eyre Basin for Future Generations

The Company
Our Client, Desert Channels Queensland, (DCQ) is the leading natural resource management body for the Queensland section of the Lake Eyre Basin. Its mission is clear: to safeguard and enhance the soil, water, pastures, and biodiversity that make this region unique. Working in partnership with landholders, graziers, local councils, Traditional Owners, and communities, the organisation delivers projects that create lasting impact across 51 million hectares of Southern and Central West Queensland.

The Role
DCQ has reached an exciting stage in its growth, which in turn has created an opportunity for the next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to evolve and further increase the capability and scale of impact. With a community first and people-led approach, the CEO plays a key role in leading a dedicated team to deliver on the 2030 strategic priorities of strong leadership, partnerships and relationships, improved resilience of landscape, community engagement, and a skilled, connected and empowered workforce.

The position is required to be based in Longreach given the presence is essential for leading the organisation effectively, engaging with local stakeholders, and maintaining a strong connection to the region’s landscapes and communities. Frequent travel across the Desert Channels region to meet with government agencies, funders, and key partners will be required. This may require planned time away from home, often involving travel over long distances, including through remote and rural areas.

Key Roles & Responsibilities
As CEO of DCQ, you will lead a dynamic natural resource management organisation responsible for the Queensland section of the Lake Eyre Basin. This role involves:

• Strategy & Board Partnership - Providing strategic leadership and working closely with the Board to set future direction.
• People & Culture - Managing a team of 21 full-time and 2 part-time staff, along with contractors.
• Financial sustainability - Overseeing an annual budget of $8M–$9M and ensuring financial sustainability.
• Program Impact & Delivery - Driving program delivery across 51 million hectares of outback country, including initiatives in soil, water, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture.
• Stakeholder Engagement - Building strong partnerships with landholders, Traditional Owners, government agencies, and community stakeholders.
• External Profile - Representing DCQ as an ambassador in public forums, media, and networks.
• Governance - Ensuring compliance with governance standards and organisational policies.

About You
You are a community focused leader with a genuine passion for sustainable landscapes and resilient communities. Known for your people first and values-driven leadership style you bring experience leading change, inspiring teams, and delivering practical solutions that balance environmental stewardship with economic and social outcomes. Collaboration and cultural awareness are at the heart of your approach allowing you to build genuine and trusted partnerships with landholders, Traditional Owners, government, and community stakeholders.

Additionally, you align strongly with DCQ’s mission to protect and enhance the Queensland section of the Lake Eyre Basin for future generations and are keen to be an advocate and ambassador for great NRM practices in the region.

Required Skills & Proficiencies

• Relevant qualifications in Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or similar; postgraduate business/management qualifications desirable.
• Senior executive leadership experience with responsibility for organisational strategy and long-term vision.
• Proven ability to develop and deliver strategic plans driving growth, diversification, and innovation.
• Experience leading high-performing, geographically dispersed teams and fostering inclusive, values-driven cultures.
• Strong corporate governance capability, including Board engagement, risk management, and compliance oversight.
• Demonstrated success in stakeholder engagement and partnership development across government, industry, and community sectors.
• Skilled public-facing leader with experience in media, advocacy, and external representation.
• Operational leadership experience, including performance, systems, and resource management.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, planning, and managing diverse funding streams.
• Track record of building organisational reputation, brand, and stakeholder trust.
• Experience leading innovation and organisational change, including new technologies and service models.
• Sector experience across environment, agriculture, natural resource management, or sustainability, with knowledge of ESG, natural capital, or climate frameworks.
• Proven ability to engage effectively with Traditional Owners and Indigenous stakeholders, demonstrating cultural awareness and partnership capability.
• A current Queensland C Class Driver’s Licence is mandatory.

Additional Requirements
The successful applicant will be expected to demonstrate knowledge or the ability to quickly acquire an understanding of:

• Contemporary natural resource management issues relevant to the Desert Channels region.
• The operational and environmental challenges specific to remote, arid, and semi-arid landscapes.
• Indigenous land management practices, cultural awareness, and respectful engagement with Traditional Owners.

Travel within the region will include driving on unsealed roads and in remote environments, hence, experience in four-wheel driving would be an advantage.

Rewards & Culture
For those passionate about environmental sustainability, rural communities, and land stewardship, the opportunity to be the next CEO for DCQ in Longreach, offers both a meaningful professional challenge and a fulfilling lifestyle in a close-knit outback setting. Relocating to Longreach offers the opportunity to live and work at the heart of one of Australia’s most iconic and ecologically important regions. With a strong sense of community, rich cultural heritage, and a landscape unlike anywhere else, Longreach provides an exceptional lifestyle for individuals and families alike.

Some of the additional key benefits include:

• Relocation and rental accommodation support (tailored to individual needs)
• 5 weeks annual leave
• 12.75% super, remote area tax concessions and salary sacrifice options
• 4WD vehicle provided for work travel and personal use

How to Apply
For a confidential discussion or to review the information pack and full PD please contact Claire Black on 0407 821 086 or via claire@talentnation.com.au

Apply now by submitting your current CV and cover letter addressing the required skills and proficiencies, (including additional requirements) (in Word format) via our online application process. Please note applications will be assessed as they are received so please do not delay in applying. Applications will close Friday at 5pm (AEST), 29th May 2026.

To be eligible to apply, you must have unrestricted rights to work in Australia. Applicants may also be required to complete psychometric and background assessments.

Talent Nation encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people of all cultures, abilities, sex, and genders. Applicants can request a reasonable adjustment at any stage during the recruitment process, please contact us so we can provide adjustments for you.