The organisation

Health Equity Matters is Australia’s national peak body for the community-controlled HIV response and the federation representing leading HIV organisations across the country. The organisation provides national leadership in policy, advocacy and research translation. Working with governments, researchers and community partners, Health Equity Matters leads evidence-based responses to HIV to reduce stigma and discrimination and improve health outcomes for communities most affected by HIV. Its core purpose is to ensure its communities can access the care, prevention and support they need to end health inequity and achieve the virtual elimination of HIV transmission.

Beyond Australia, Health Equity Matters plays a significant role in shaping regional HIV responses, particularly across the Indo-Pacific. Through partnerships with governments, other civil society and multilateral agencies, the organisation delivers programs in multiple settings to strengthen community-led health systems, improve access to services for key populations, and influence sustainable HIV financing and policy reform.

By combining local expertise with international collaboration, Health Equity Matters contributes to a coordinated, rights-based approach to health equity and HIV prevention both nationally and globally.

Health Equity Matters has offices in Sydney, Australia and Bangkok, Thailand.
 
The role

The Principal Director – International Programs is a senior leadership role responsible for driving strategic direction, growth and delivery of Health Equity Matters’ portfolio of programs across the Indo-Pacific. Reporting to the CEO and working closely with the Leadership Team and Board, the role oversees major bilateral and multi-lateral funded programs, while ensuring high-quality implementation, knowledge management, financial stewardship and risk management. The position plays a critical role in securing and diversifying funding, strengthening partnerships with governments, donors and in-country community-led organisations, and expanding the organisation’s regional impact. Acting as a key thought partner to the CEO, the Principal Director will lead business development efforts, represent the organisation in global fora, and support the long-term sustainability of international programs.

The successful candidate will bring significant senior leadership experience in global health or international development, with a strong track record managing complex, donor-funded programs in the Indo-Pacific or similar contexts. They will demonstrate strategic vision, exceptional stakeholder engagement and diplomacy skills, and proven success in securing and managing funding from bilateral and multilateral donors, with growing importance placed on philanthropic funding streams. A highly capable leader, they will combine strong financial and grant management expertise with the ability to lead high-performing teams, navigate complex stakeholder environments and deliver high-performing programs on time and within budget. Experience working with community-led key population organisations, particularly in HIV or related health sectors, alongside excellent communication, negotiation and cross-cultural leadership skills, will be essential to success in this role.

To apply

People for Purpose is partnering with Health Equity Matters to lead the search for this role.
1. We invite you to read the position description (https://shorturl.at/mJWYV). To review Health Equity Matters’ annual reports and financial statements, please visit their website and ACNC profile.
2. Once you have absorbed this information and completed your own research, please contact us (0468 625 252 or hello@peopleforpurpose.com.au) if you have specific questions.
3. Your application will include your CV, as well as a cover letter outlining how your skills and experience align to this opportunity and why you are interested in joining Health Equity Matters. A considered cover letter will be an important part of your application.

Applications close at 1:30pm on Monday, 20 April 2026.

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