At Ability Works Australia, inclusion is more than a value – it’s the way business is done. We are a purpose‑driven non‑profit creating meaningful work and better‑designed workplaces with and for people with disability and those who are socially excluded.
Our impact comes to life through three connected areas:
- Social Enterprise (Supported Employment) – a work‑integrated social enterprise providing supported employment through manufacturing, packaging, assembly, and 3PL logistics services for government and corporate partners.
- Employment Services – IEA and NDIS‑funded customised employment supports, helping people move into open employment at full wages.
- Inclusive Consulting & Training – partnering with organisations to design more inclusive workplaces, products, and services, so inclusion is built in from the start.
For over 60 years, we’ve been part of Melbourne’s community, working alongside businesses, government, and community partners to create a future where everyone’s skills and contributions are valued. When you work with Ability Works, you help make inclusion standard practice – not a special project.
We are now seeking a Strategic Partnerships Manager to help us grow our impact and revenue through long‑term partnerships with corporate and government organisations.
About the role
Reporting to the CEO, the Strategic Partnerships Manager will lead the identification, acquisition and growth of long‑term partnerships that generate sustainable manufacturing, packaging, and 3PL revenue and meaningful work opportunities for people with disability.
You will focus on securing and growing relationships with corporate, government and sector stakeholders, with a strong emphasis on social procurement and multi‑year service agreements. You will work closely with our operations, employment services, inclusive consulting teams, and our Sales & Solutions Consultant to turn strategic commitments into real work and real jobs.
This is a hands‑on, externally focused role for someone who is commercially sharp, relationship‑driven and deeply aligned with inclusive employment.
Key responsibilities
- Identify, target and engage corporate, government and large non‑profit organisations aligned with Ability Works’ capabilities and mission.
- Lead the full partnership and sales cycle – from first contact and opportunity scoping through to proposals, negotiation and signed agreements.
- Build and grow a small portfolio of “Core Strategic Allies” that provide significant, sustained work volumes and social impact.
- Deepen relationships across partner organisations (procurement, ESG/CSR, operations, project teams) to broaden the scope and scale of work.
- Deliver agreed annual revenue and margin targets, while helping to reduce revenue concentration risk across the portfolio.
- Use Capsule CRM to maintain an accurate, up‑to‑date pipeline and provide reliable sales forecasts and insights for the leadership team and Board.
- Bring back clear customer, market and social procurement insights to inform service development and potential expansion opportunities (for example, new facilities or capabilities).
- Represent Ability Works at relevant events, forums and sector networks, and be a compelling ambassador for inclusive employment and social enterprise.
About you
You are an experienced B2B partnerships or sales professional who is motivated by both commercial results and social impact. You are comfortable working with multiple stakeholders and navigating complex organisations, and you enjoy building long‑term, trust‑based relationships.
Essential
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in B2B sales, account management or partnerships involving complex, multi‑stakeholder deals (for example, services, outsourcing, logistics, manufacturing, facilities or similar).
- Demonstrated track record of securing and growing strategic accounts or partnerships, including working with procurement and commercial contracts.
- Strong commercial acumen, including understanding of pricing, margin and basic financial drivers.
- Confident using a CRM (such as Capsule, Hubspot, Salesforce) to manage pipeline, activities and reporting.
- Excellent relationship‑building, negotiation, presentation and communication skills.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with internal delivery and operations teams to design and deliver realistic, sustainable solutions.
- Valid driver’s licence and capacity to travel locally and within Victoria as required.
Desirable
- Experience in or with social enterprise, disability services, inclusive employment, or for‑purpose organisations.
- Experience engaging with ESG/CSR, social procurement or community investment teams.
- Comfort engaging with operational and technical concepts (such as manufacturing, logistics and packaging), drawing on subject matter experts where needed.
Personal qualities
– Strong alignment with the vision of creating meaningful work for people with disability.
– Strategic, curious and analytical – able to identify the right opportunities and ask the right questions.
– Resilient and persistent – comfortable with long sales cycles and able to maintain momentum.
– Organised and accountable – manages time, pipeline and follow‑through effectively.
– Collaborative, respectful and inclusive in the way you work with colleagues and partners.
Why join Ability Works?
- Be part of a values‑driven organisation where inclusion is core business, not an add‑on.
- Directly contribute to creating and sustaining meaningful employment for people with disability.
- Work with a passionate, supportive team and engaged CEO.
- Opportunity to shape the next phase of growth in strategic partnerships and social procurement.
How to apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining:
– Why you are interested in this role and Ability Works Australia
– How your experience aligns with the key responsibilities and “About you” criteria
Applications will be reviewed as they are received and shortlisted candidates may be contacted before the closing date.
