About the Australian Psychological Society (APS)
The Australian Psychological Society (APS) is the foremost professional body and voice for psychological science and practice in Australia. From professional development and support services to advocating in government, we cater to the needs of members and help grow the capacity of the psychology workforce. While in the general public we provide the psychology information and tools people need, ultimately we serve our purpose of improving the mental health and wellbeing of the Australian population.
Stronger Together, Respect in every action, Forward Thinking, Professional Integrity
About the Role
We are passionate about people and it is with pleasure that we announce an exciting new opportunity. The Head of Social Impact sits within the Policy and Social Impact team, reporting to General Manager, Policy and Social Impact. This role, working closely with colleagues, works in elevating the role of psychology to develop solutions to critical societal challenges and increase positive impact, in line with APS’ strategic priorities.
The position develops targeted plans, resources and programs to deliver high-impact, high-quality solutions enabling members and partners to apply psychological science and practice to support and empower communities and individuals, so that Australians can thrive and lead fulfilling lives.
The Head of Social Impact primary responsibilities include:
Enabling Social Impact
- Innovative solutions in the application of psychology to community and social issues.
- Managing projects to develop user-focused products, services, resources, and processes.
Research and analysis
- Review and evaluate the social impact of APS products, services and programs.
- Develop and apply relevant research methodology, evidence-base, and insights to inform the design and delivery of high-quality social impact-related plans and programs.
Collaboration, Internal and External Representation
- Represent the APS at strategic forums, develop and maintain appropriate networks
- Work collaboratively with key internal and external stakeholders from government, industry, academia and community, on issues and projects relevant to the role of psychology in society.
Reporting and communicating
- Define, measure and report on the social impact of the APS – internally and externally.
- Maintain quality control of all social impact-related resources, programs, and materials.
We work in a hybrid model. Most team members currently work from home, with the option to work in our Melbourne CBD office when it suits them, or as the business requires (ie for large planning meetings).
Our Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a motivated and skilled professional to lead our Social Impact team.
Key Selection criteria includes:
- Relevant tertiary qualifications such as psychology, law, public health or public policy.
- Demonstrated managerial experience in social impact/ policy roles, ideally in relation to professional services such as mental health or health.
- Strong program management skills, including an ability to develop, manage and implement multi-stakeholder, multi-sector projects focused on addressing critical societal challenges.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build trusting relationships with internal and external stakeholders to inform policy development and gain commitment to implementation.
- Highly developed written and oral presentation skills, with ability to identify key messages and information required for decision making.
- Exceptional communication skills with ability to effectively represent the organisation, collaborate effectively with others and coherently present ideas.
- An understanding of the discipline and practice of psychology.
Why work with the APS?
- Access to salary packaging benefits including Salary packaging Living allowance $15,900 (net) & Meal Entertainment Benefit $2,650 (net) putting more money in your pocket.
- Flexible approach to work with no mandated days in the office to provide better work/life balance
- Great social environment to keep us connected
- 12 weeks paid parental leave
- 3 paid volunteer days each year
- Employee Assistance Program & Mental Health First Aiders
- Staff access to Member Benefits Program
- Paid Employee Referral Program, where you are rewarded for referring successful talent
Next Steps
If this role sounds like your next career step then please forward your application by Monday 25th September, addressing the key selection criteria in a cover letter, along with your current CV to [email protected]