Chair - Adult, Community and Further Education Board

The Adult, Community and Further Education (ACFE) Board fosters the adult community education sector in Victoria, referred to as the Learn Local sector, and oversees Victorian Government funding to the sector to ensure that the learning needs of adult Victorians are identified and met.

The Ministerial Statement on the Future of Adult Community Education in Victoria 2020-25 outlines a vision for the future of adult education in Victoria, and acknowledges the crucial role that the adult community education sector plays in Victoria. The Ministerial Statement tasks the ACFE Board with the lead role in implementing the Ministerial Statement in Victoria.

For more information about the ACFE Board visit the Victorian Government website.

This is an exciting opportunity for a suitably experienced individual to be appointed as Chair of the ACFE Board.

The primary role of the ACFE Board is to plan and promote adult learning, allocate resources, develop policies, and advise the Minister for Training and Skills on matters related to adult community education in Victoria.

There are 12 members on ACFE Board including the Chairperson and the Deputy Chairperson.

The Board meets approximately 6 times per year. Board members generally participate in one or more of the Board’s committees or working/advisory groups.

The Board also elects eight members as Regional Council Champions. Champions facilitate communication between the Board and Regional Councils. Champions are expected to attend all Regional Council meetings, of which there are a minimum of five a year.

For further information about the role please see the ACFE Board Chair position description.

We encourage individuals with skills, experience, abilities and personal qualities in the following areas to apply:

• the public sector values (as set out under section 7 of the Public Administration Act 2004)
• professionalism by acting responsibly and being accountable
• an understanding of the Board (either pre-existing or gained over time)
• an understanding of Committee functions
• a sound understanding of good governance theories and practices
• the ability to read, understand financial statements, ask relevant questions about them and interpret and evaluate the answers
• sound strategic and business acumen and ability to critically analyse, assess and comment on a full range of matters and issues impacting learners and communities
• capacity to advocate for the sector, influence and work with key stakeholders and industry partners
• track record of demonstrating the ability to enquire, evaluate and make sound judgements, a disciplined approach and strong professional standards
• experience of operating at Board level, with a track record of experience in a significant and relevant leadership role
• strong chairing, communication and leadership skills, able to effectively facilitate Board decisions, delivering challenging and insightful messages in a constructive and concise manner
• Learn Local knowledge and/or experience
• VET and higher education sector knowledge and/or experience.

We encourage applications from a wide range of applicants.

The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards and committees reflect the rich diversity of the Victorian community.

We encourage applications from women, people of all ages, Aboriginal people, people with disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and from lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, gender diverse, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people. We will provide adjustments to the recruitment process upon request.

Please provide a cover letter no longer than two pages, stating how you meet the key selection criteria outlined in the position description, and a resume.

Applications must be made via the Join a Public Board website and will close on 14 March at 11:59 pm.

For all enquiries regarding the appointment process or for further support, please contact: higher.education@education.vic.gov.au.