Head of Events

Are you an experienced events leader looking for a meaningful role in a respected, purpose-led organisation?

Looking for an opportunity to lead a significant events portfolio and a collaborative, dedicated team?

Here's an opportunity to bring your energy, leadership and commercial acumen to an established and successful program in the industry that underpins Australia's prosperity, resilience and liveability.

Heart Talent is delighted to partner with the Australian Water Association — the peak body for Australia's water sector — as it enters an exciting new chapter.

Powered by a renewed purpose to inspire, connect and transform, AWA is evolving from a connector of water professionals into a catalyst for system-wide change — with events at the heart of how that connection and value is delivered.

With a new five-year strategy setting clear direction for the water community and a vision for a sustainable water future, there's real momentum behind growing AWA's reach and impact through member experience and events, making this an exciting time to join the organisation.

• WHAT'S ON OFFER
• permanent, full time role
• Chatswood office
• hybrid working — 3 days in office/2 days WFH
• salary packaging and novated leasing options
• respected brand in a thriving sector
• diverse programs, initiatives and stakeholders
• investment in advocacy, capability and sector-level impact
• ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

A critical touchpoint and cornerstone of engagement for the water community, AWA events play a pivotal part in the organisation's strategy.

Reporting to the Executive General Manager, Engagement and Member Value, you'll lead the AWA events program and team to deliver more than 80 events a year, including the flagship annual Ozwater.

This role will see you

• own the events and exhibition portfolio, spanning national, state-based, digital and branch-led events
• lead, guide and mentor an established and committed team (6 direct reports)
• lead Ozwater, another national conference and a new international conference
• own budget planning and management across the program, including quarterly P&L tracking and forecasting to drive revenue outcomes
• support and guide capability uplift in budget and financial management
• help shape more connected, improved ways of working with internal stakeholders
• grow AWA's digital and hybrid events offering
• manage external contractors, suppliers and vendors to ensure strong event delivery.

ABOUT YOU

• You're an experienced, positive and adaptive people leader with significant experience leading an events program or portfolio either in house or within an agency or PCO.
• You're commercially-minded with experience managing a P&L, tracking event and quarterly performance and reporting to internal stakeholders, including the Board.
• You're a people-first leader with strong interpersonal skills and a constructive approach to accountability and results.
• You're comfortable working with a range of internal stakeholders, committees and volunteers, balancing visible leadership with a willingness to roll up your sleeves and be hands-on when needed.
• You have experience with digital and hybrid events, including creating new event formats.
• While water or association sector experience is not a prerequisite, you have a genuine interest in doing work that matters in a purpose-driven organisation.

Heart Talent is committed to responding to every applicant.