Australian Program Manager

• Join one of Australia’s most prominent philanthropic foundations
• Lead strategic grant making initiatives
• Melbourne location (Chadstone)

Gandel Foundation is one of Australia’s largest independent family philanthropic funds, committed to creating a positive and lasting difference in people’s lives. With over $170 million granted to charitable causes since 1978, the Foundation supports initiatives that build stronger, more resilient, vibrant and inclusive communities across Australia.
​
We are seeking a Program Manager to lead our Australian grant making program, working closely with the CEO and a small, dynamic team. This is a unique opportunity to shape impactful grant making, foster meaningful relationships, and contribute to strategic initiatives that align with our mission and values.
  
About the Role
The Program Manager is responsible for managing the Foundation’s Australian grant making program and activities in line with our strategy and priorities. This includes identifying and executing impactful grant making across all our program areas, managing relationships with our Australian portfolio of grantee partners, and supporting the strategic activities of the Foundation.  
  
Reporting to the CEO, the successful candidate will have experience in strategic grant making and be able to work proactively and creatively in a dynamic small-team environment. Exceptional interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work successfully with family members, boards, team members and partners across the not-for-profit sector. 
​
About YOU​
You are a strategic thinker with a passion for philanthropy and experience in the not-for-profit sector, and will bring:

• Proven experience in grant making, ideally within a foundation or philanthropic setting,
• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills,
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to present to boards and senior stakeholders,
• Analytical skills and attention to detail, with experience using CRM or grant management systems,
• Integrity, empathy, and a collaborative spirit.

Preferred but not required

• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field.
• Experience working with a family foundation or PAF.
• Knowledge of Gandel Foundation’s areas of interest.

This opportunity is available on a part-time or full-time basis, subject to the candidate’s level of experience, offered as an initial 12-month contract with the potential for extension.

Gembridge Australia champions diversity and is committed to building an inclusive environment. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people of all abilities, cultures, sexual orientation and genders.

APPLY NOW if you are a strategic, relationship-driven, grant making professional, with a passion for philanthropy, strong communication skills, and a collaborative spirit.​

Gembridge is proud to partner with Gandel Foundation.​
​
For a confidential discussion, contact Lisa Krishtul or Michelle Varcoe at Gembridge on 03 8375 9661 or [email protected].