Head of Philanthropy

• Melbourne or Sydney
• Full-time
• Salary packaging and other benefits

Australian Red Cross is part of the world's largest humanitarian movement, supporting people and communities before, during and after emergencies, and helping create pathways out of vulnerability. Guided by a new organisational strategy and a deep commitment to acting for humanity, Australian Red Cross is entering an exciting phase of growth and transformation.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of philanthropy at one of Australia's most trusted and respected humanitarian organisations. At a pivotal time of growth and transformation, you will lead the next chapter of philanthropic investment and impact.

Reporting to the Director, Fundraising Partnerships & Revenue Growth, the Head of Philanthropy will lead the strategic renewal and growth of Australian Red Cross's philanthropy portfolio, spanning major gifts, trusts and foundations, structured philanthropy and transformational giving. Working closely with the Executive, Board members and key supporters, you will help shape a compelling vision for philanthropic investment and position Australian Red Cross as a partner of choice for donors seeking lasting social impact.

Leading a talented team, you will drive ambitious growth, strengthen capability and build a high-performing culture focused on exceptional donor engagement and long-term relationship stewardship. A key aspect of the role will be cultivating and securing significant multi-year investments and transformational gifts, while identifying new opportunities to deepen engagement with major philanthropists, family foundations and strategic funding partners. With significant untapped potential and strong executive support, you will build momentum across the philanthropy program and create new pathways for transformational giving.

This is more than a fundraising leadership role. It is an opportunity to influence the future of humanitarian impact in Australia through philanthropy, partnerships and bold thinking.

About YOU

• A respected philanthropy leader with a track record of building high-performing teams and delivering significant growth across major gifts, trusts and foundations, and high-value fundraising portfolios
• Demonstrated success securing transformational and/or seven-figure philanthropic gifts and multi-year funding commitments
• Strong strategic leadership capability, with experience developing and implementing growth strategies within complex organisations
• An inspiring people leader who creates clarity, accountability and a culture of excellence, enabling teams to achieve ambitious outcomes
• Exceptional relationship-building skills and a proven ability to engage and influence Boards, CEOs, senior executives and high-net-worth individuals
• Entrepreneurial and growth-oriented, with the ability to identify new opportunities and expand philanthropic investment.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to translate strategy into sustainable revenue outcomes
• Deep understanding of the Australian philanthropic landscape, donor motivations and best-practice stewardship
• Experience partnering with Boards and Executive teams to shape strategy, influence decision-making and drive sustainable growth
• Experience with structured giving, private ancillary funds (PAFs), family philanthropy or innovative funding models highly regarded

Australian Red Cross offers a flexible and supportive workplace along with salary packaging benefits, additional wellbeing leave, professional development opportunities and hybrid working arrangements. Most importantly, you’ll join a passionate organisation dedicated to creating lasting impact for people and communities experiencing vulnerability across Australia.

Gembridge Australia champions diversity and is committed to building an inclusive environment. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people of all abilities, cultures, sexual orientation and genders.


APPLY NOW if you are a strategic and influential leader ready to drive transformational growth, inspire philanthropy and create lasting humanitarian impact.

Gembridge is proud to partner with Australian Red Cross.

For a confidential discussion, contact Michelle Varcoe or Sharon Hoffman at Gembridge on ************ or **********************.