Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Impact Manager

The filling of this position is intended to constitute a special/equal opportunity measure under section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth), and s 27 of the Discrimination Act 1991 (ACT). The position is therefore only open to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants.

Community First Development is a First Nations led community development and research organisation that creates positive change in and with First Nations communities. We undertake social and economic development, and research projects in partnership with First Nations communities, businesses and people. Communities have control; they name the priorities and choose the design, assets, capabilities and approach to achieve their vision. We provide tailored support through community partners, skilled staff, trained volunteers, supporters and service providers.

Reporting to the General Manager Community Development, the Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Impact Manager is responsible for leading Community First Development’s program support functions, including monitoring, evaluation and learning, impact reporting, systems and information management, strategic projects and volunteer program leadership.

This role will strengthen organisational effectiveness and community outcomes through evidence-based decision-making, organisational learning, volunteer engagement and continuous improvement initiatives. The position leads Community First Development’s monitoring, evaluation and learning framework, ensuring data-driven insights inform strategy, service improvement and the demonstration of impact across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation and continuous improvement of Community First Development’s Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) framework.
• Oversee organisational reporting, impact measurement and performance reporting processes.
• Lead the collection, analysis and reporting of organisational impact data to support strategic decision-making and organisational learning.
• Coordinate and quality assure internal, external and Board reporting.
• Oversee organisational information systems, databases and reporting platforms, ensuring data integrity and effective use of information.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen organisational systems, processes and impact.
• Provide strategic advice, analysis and recommendations to the General Manager Community Development and Executive team.
• Lead the strategic development and continuous improvement of the volunteer program, including monitoring participation, retention and outcomes.
• Supervise, coach and support the Systems and Information Coordinator, Strategic Projects Coordinator and Volunteer Coordinators.
• Build productive relationships across the organisation to promote collaboration, innovation and organisational effectiveness.
• Support the implementation of organisational strategies, priorities and community development objectives.

Selection Criteria

• At least five years’ experience in monitoring, evaluation and learning, impact measurement, organisational reporting, information management, organisational development or a related field.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including staff supervision, coaching and performance management.
• Experience developing or implementing monitoring, evaluation and learning frameworks, outcomes measurement approaches or impact reporting systems.
• Tertiary qualification in evaluation, community development, social sciences, business management, information management or a related discipline, or equivalent workplace experience.
• Ability to work respectfully, effectively and collaboratively with First Nations peoples and non-Indigenous people.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to translate data and evidence into meaningful organisational insights.
• Demonstrated experience managing organisational reporting, dashboards, databases and information systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, briefings and presentations for a range of audiences.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead organisational improvement initiatives and influence positive change.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery and competing priorities.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, organisational learning and evidence-based decision-making.

Benefits

• Working with a First Nations-led organisation.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Access to Public Benevolent Institution (PBI) Salary Packaging options to reduce your taxable income.
• Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Opportunity to contribute to community-led development and create meaningful impact with First Nations communities across Australia.

Eligibility

The successful candidate must hold Australian Working Rights and will be required to undertake pre-employment checks including:

• National Police Check.
• Working with Children Check and/or Working with Vulnerable People Check (or equivalent for your jurisdiction).
• Any other checks required by organisational policy

How to apply

To apply for this position, please complete your application directly online prior to the closing time of 5 PM on 7th September 2026.

Required documents:

1. Cover letter addressing the key selection criteria (up to 2 pages)
2. Current Resume/CV

To view the full Position Description (PD) or learn more about Community First Development, please visit the Community First Development Jobs Page.

To discuss the position please contact Renee Tomkinson at RTomkinson@communityfirstdevelopment.org.au or call on 0448 034 534

Please note screening and interviewing for this role will commence immediately. The position may be filled before the end date so if you are intending to apply, please do so asap.