• Applications close:
• Job posted on: 6th Aug 2026
• Melbourne > Fitzroy
• Full Time
• Unions and Workers Rights, Executive and Senior Management, Management, Policy and Research, Advocacy and Campaigns
• Not For Profit (NFP)

Lead Ethical Clothing Australia - a unique collaboration between unions, industry and accredited businesses working to uphold the rights of TCF workers

Ethical Clothing Australia (ECA) is a unique collaboration between unions, industry and accredited businesses, working together to protect and uphold the rights of workers in Australia's textile, clothing and footwear (TCF) industry.

Through its accreditation program, marketing and education initiatives and industry engagement, ECA promotes ethical manufacturing practices and helps ensure workers receive their lawful pay and entitlements while working in safe conditions. Accredited businesses can display the Ethical Clothing Australia trademark, providing consumers and major purchasers with confidence that products are ethically made in Australia.

We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to guide the organisation through its next phase of impact and sustainability.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Homeworker Code Committee, you will lead the organisation's strategy, operations and future growth while leading a small and dedicated team.

You will work closely with unions, industry representatives, accredited businesses, government and civil society organisations to strengthen ECA's influence, grow participation in the accreditation program and identify opportunities that support the long-term sustainability of the organisation.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected national organisation that delivers meaningful outcomes for workers, businesses and the broader Australian manufacturing sector.

About You

You are an experienced leader who is comfortable working in complex stakeholder environments and balancing the interests of unions, industry, government and other partners.

You will bring:

• Experience leading a not-for-profit, industry body, advocacy organisation or similar organisation, including governance and reporting to a Board or Committee.
• Demonstrated experience working within a union, industrial relations, worker advocacy, industry association or related environment.
• Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to build trusted relationships across unions, government, employers and industry representatives.
• Experience influencing strategic outcomes through advocacy, government engagement, policy development or partnership building.
• Experience securing and managing government funding agreements, grants or service contracts.
• Proven leadership capability, including leading, developing and supporting high-performing teams.
• Strong organisational, financial and governance capability, with the ability to oversee organisational performance, compliance and long-term sustainability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking, presentations and media engagement.
• A genuine commitment to ethical work practices and labour rights.

Desirable

• Knowledge of Australia's textile, clothing and footwear industry.
• Knowledge of certification or accreditation programs.

Why Join Ethical Clothing Australia?

• Lead a nationally recognised organisation with a 25+ year history.
• Influence the future of ethical manufacturing in Australia.
• Work alongside unions, industry and government stakeholders to deliver meaningful change.
• Lead a values-driver and committed team.
• Shape the future direction and sustainability of a respected accreditation program.

The role is based in Fitzroy, Melbourne and will require occasional interstate travel.

A position description is attached.

• Attachment iconECA National Manager Advertisement - PD 2026.pdf
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