Deputy Executive Director

Catholic Education Western Australia

From its humble beginnings in 1843, when the first Catholic school opened in Perth, Catholic education in Western Australia has been responding to the needs of communities, providing a Catholic education for all families who seek it.

Formerly known as the Catholic Education Centre, Catholic Education Western Australia’s head office in West Leederville was opened by Pope John Paul II on 30 November 1986 – the only building in Australia to have been opened by a reigning Pope. During the official opening, His Holiness prayed: “May this centre always be a home of truth and wisdom, of faith and goodwill toward all – may it be of service to the community and work to build your kingdom of justice, light and peace.”

Today, it is central to Catholic Education Western Australia’s delivery of Catholic education across the state’s four Catholic dioceses ­– Broome, Bunbury, Geraldton and Perth – educating 84,000+ young people in 160 schools and colleges across WA.

Deputy Executive Director

The Executive Director of Catholic Education Western Australia Ltd (CEWA) invites expressions of interest from passionate and committed leaders for the pivotal role of Deputy Executive Director. In this influential position, you will play a crucial part in supporting the Executive Director to oversee and drive the strategic direction and operational management of Catholic education across Western Australia.

As Deputy Executive Director, you will also represent the Executive Director with delegated authority when required, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision-making at the highest levels.

The Role

This is a twelve-month fixed term secondment opportunity, commencing 21 July or at a later date by negotiation.

The Deputy Executive Director promotes a culture of explicit witness, trust, authenticity, collaboration, and collective commitment to improving the religious and learning outcomes of the system.

What We Can Offer You

• Superannuation at 2.5% above the legislated Superannuation Guarantee
• System Leaders Renewal Leave
• Additional paid leave during office closures (over Christmas and Easter)
• Relocation package for eligible candidates
• Salary packaging in line with our not-for-profit status
• Corporate healthcare, wellbeing and fitness initiatives
• Employee assistance program

Selection Criteria

Catholic Identity

• Genuine, deeply embedded Catholic faith and active membership in a Catholic Eucharistic community.
• Witness to Catholic Education’s role in the Church’s mission in Western Australia.
• Ability to articulate the Catholic Church’s mission in school education.

Personal Integrity and Self-awareness

• Self-awareness and commitment to ongoing personal religious and spiritual development.
• Models the Code of Ethical Conduct and displays resilience in challenges.

Strategy and Management

• Balances system accountabilities with governance and subsidiarity.
• Leads significant strategies for school and system improvement.
• Inspires purpose and direction, focusing strategically.
• Anticipates and responds to opportunities and risks.

Achieving Results

• Builds organisational skills, capacity, and responsiveness.
• Mobilises people, physical, and financial resources effectively.

Building Relationships

• Nurtures strategic relationships with key stakeholders.
• Builds positive organisational culture through coaching and development.
• Represents Catholic Education effectively in public and internal forums.

Communication

• Outstanding written skills and experience in influencing organisational reform.
• Communicates clearly and adapts to different audiences.
• Effective facilitation, presentation, negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution skills.

Specific Requirements

• Senior leadership experience in Catholic education.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications in theology or education at or above master’s level.
• CEWA’s Accreditation for Leadership or equivalent.
• Ability to travel inter and intra state as required.

To Express Interest

To make an expression of interest for this position, kindly submit your information via the Apply Now button on our website. Your application should succinctly detail how your skills, knowledge, and personal attributes align with the requirements of this position. Applications will not be accepted by email.

Please submit the following:

• A covering letter (maximum 3 pages) addressing the selection criteria as outlined in the position description.
• An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae outlining your employment history, qualifications, certifications and accreditation status
• Contact details of three professional references
• Contact details for your parish priest, where you currently attend mass

Applications Close: 5pm Wednesday 4 June 2025.

For further Information: Contact Alex Delamere, Coordinator Talent Recruitment on 08 9380 1740 or alex.delamere@cewa.edu.au

Please refer to the Position Description for additional details.

A current National Police History Check issued by the Department of Education Western Australia and a valid Working with Children Check must be provided by the successful applicant.

Catholic Education Western Australia encourages applications from culturally diverse backgrounds, First Nations people, and individuals with disabilities or medical conditions who meet the requirements of this position.

To be eligible to apply for this role, you must be legally permitted to work in Australia.