The Role

The Program Development Officer will lead the strategic development and delivery of the Beyond Sport Mentoring and Employment Program, focusing on building sustainable pathways for people with disability (PWD) and Paralympians. This role involves identifying and establishing new partnerships with support services, conducting strategic planning for program sustainability, and developing financial models to determine the optimal long-term funding and operational structure. The position aims to enhance program impact, ensure scalability, and drive innovation in mentoring and employment initiatives.

This is a part-time, fixed-term contract until 30 January 2027. This role until may require occasional morning, evening and/or weekend work. This role also offers learning and professional development tailored to the candidate’s future career goals.

The Person

The role is well-suited to a Paralympian (active or retired), or an individual with lived experience in elite or disability sport, who brings authenticity, empathy, and credibility when engaging with athletes and the broader community. They are passionate about inclusion and empowering others (particularly PWD and Para athletes) and keen to collaborate with athletes, member organisations, sponsors, government, and corporate partners.

They are both collaborative and able to work independently, inclusive and values-driven, they are trustworthy and they have a desire to amplify the Paralympic movement’s impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic development and delivery of the Beyond Sport Mentoring and Employment Program, aligning with organisational goals and the 2032 Paralympic vision.
• Identify, establish, and manage new partnerships for candidate support services, government agencies, NGOs, and corporate entities to expand program reach and resources.
• Conduct program sustainability strategic planning, including conducting strategy co-design, risk assessments, outcome evaluations, and long-term growth strategies.
• Develop and analyse financial models to evaluate sustainability options, such as funding diversification, cost-benefit analysis, and revenue generation opportunities.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to co-design program enhancements, incorporating feedback from participants and partners.

• Monitor and report on program performance metrics, using data to inform strategic decisions and continuous improvement.
• Facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building within the team on strategic planning and financial sustainability modelling best practices.
• Contribute to grant applications, funding proposals, and partnership agreements to secure resources for program sustainability.

Key Competencies

• Demonstrated experience in strategic program development, delivery, and sustainability planning, preferably in not-for-profit, disability services, or sport sectors.
• Proven expertise in establishing and managing partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including support services and funding bodies.
• Strong skills in financial modelling, budgeting, and economic analysis to support program sustainability.
• Excellent project management abilities, with a track record of meeting targets and handling multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Superior communication and relationship-building skills, capable of engaging with senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
• Commitment to the social and economic empowerment of people with disability.
• Experience in mentoring or employment programs within inclusive or adaptive sports contexts.

Education and Training

• Current Working with Children Check (or ability to obtain).
• Lived experience of disability and/or experience working directly with Para athletes or people with disability is desirable
• Knowledge of government and corporate disability programs (e.g., NDIS, DSS, Job Access) and funding mechanisms is desirable.

Our commitment

At Paralympics Australia, we prioritise the continuous development of our team members, nurturing leadership qualities. As a valued member of the PA team, you will receive support and opportunities for growth through access to ongoing professional development in leadership.

Paralympics Australia is an equal opportunities employer dedicated to fostering diversity and establishing an inclusive workplace for all employees. We welcome applicants with lived experiences and encourage you to reach out if you require any reasonable adjustments to support you throughout the application and recruitment process. Please contact people@paralympic.org.au for assistance.