Change is possible. But only when evidence is put into action.

At the Centre for Evidence and Implementation (CEI), we’re committed to closing the ‘Implementation Gap’—ensuring the best available evidence translates into real-world gains for children, families and communities facing adversity.

We’re looking for a values-driven Associate Director based in Sydney to join our Australian team. In this role, you’ll lead a portfolio of high-impact evaluation and implementation projects, collaborating closely with government, philanthropy and community partners across Australia. You’ll also play a key role in supporting and developing a talented team spanning across our Sydney and Melbourne offices.

This role will suit someone who brings a thoughtful, big-picture mindset to complex work. You’ll contribute to shaping CEI’s direction in the way you lead projects, support your team and collaborate across the organisation—all while staying close to the work and focused on meaningful outcomes.

👥 About CEI

We’re a global not-for-profit research and consultancy centre with offices across Australia, the UK, Europe and Asia. We work with governments, non-profits, philanthropy and communities to improve outcomes through evidence-informed policy, practice and systems change. We invest deeply in our people, valuing leadership development as central to achieving meaningful, lasting impact.

🔍 What’s different about this role?

You might come from an academic or research background, but you’re ready to apply your expertise in a practical, fast-paced environment. You’re just as comfortable translating complex methodologies for diverse audiences as you are leading teams and building strong partnerships. This role blends hands-on project leadership with opportunities to shape how CEI delivers impact across sectors, from child welfare and education to public health.

🌱 Why work with us?

We’re serious about impact — and just as serious about the people who make it happen. At CEI, you’ll be part of a purpose-driven team that values collaboration, learning and diverse perspectives. We offer hybrid working, invest in professional growth, and give you the space to lead and stretch your skills.

You’ll also benefit from additional leave options — including birthday leave, festive days on us, and study or exam leave — because rest, wellbeing and development matter here, too.

📌 The essentials

Location: Sydney (hybrid workstyle)
Employment type: Full-time or part-time (0.8 FTE and above)
Term: 24 months, with potential extension
Applications close at midnight (AEST) on Sunday, 20 July 2025

📅 How to apply

If you’re ready to join a mission-driven team turning evidence into action, please submit:

Your resume
A cover letter addressing your skills and experience relevant to the role’s responsibilities and key competencies (no longer than 2 pages)

🖇️ For a full overview of the position, download the Position Description and Applicant Information Pack via our website: https://www.ceiglobal.org/about/careers/vacancies

You don’t need to tick every box—if your background is a close match and you’re passionate about the work, we’d love to hear from you.

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to CEI’s work. We are driven to improve outcomes for communities facing adversity through leveraging the best available evidence. We actively seek and welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, and with lived experience of the social issues our work addresses, and in the communities we aim to serve.

The Centre for Evidence and Implementation (CEI) is a child-safe organisation, all employees are required to undergo a National Police Check and sign our Child Protection Policy and Code of Conduct.

CEI Australia

Company Overview