Description

• Steward mission driven governance for a globally engaged health institute
• Guide strategic and ethical oversight across research, policy and impact
• Support Burnet’s long term sustainability, reputation and public trust

The Position

Burnet Institute is seeking to appoint three NonExecutive Directors to the Board to support the organisation’s next phase of growth and governance maturity. These appointments present a compelling opportunity for experienced non-executive directors or executive leaders to contribute at board and committee level within a highly respected, purposedriven medical research institute operating across Australia and internationally. Directors will play an active role in providing oversight, stewardship and strategic guidance to an organisation recognised for translating rigorous research into policy, practice and improved health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

The Board places emphasis on constructive challenge, collegiate engagement and alignment to Burnet’s mission and values. Directors are expected to contribute meaningfully to Board deliberations and to participate actively in committee work.

Across the three appointments, the Board is seeking individuals who bring senior leadership experience and the capacity to contribute governance oversight to a complex, evolving organisation. Sector experience in medical research or global health is welcomed but not essential and alignment to Burnet’s mission and demonstrated leadership impact are paramount.

The Board is particularly interested in candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Philanthropy and fundraising leadership, including strategic oversight and capability building.
• Strategic finance, with sound financial governance and oversight experience.
• Legal or commercial leadership, with exposure to complex organisational or regulatory environments.

Candidates may be experienced nonexecutive directors or executives seeking their first board role, where leadership capability, judgement and cultural alignment are evident. 

Burnet Institute is committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects the communities that are supported and the values that underpin the Institute’s work in health equity and global impact. Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, LGBTIQ+ communities, and individuals who bring lived experience relevant to health, research or community contexts are strongly encouraged to apply. Diverse perspectives strengthen governance, decisionmaking and impact, and all appointments are made on merit through a fair and inclusive process. Adjustments to the recruitment process will be provided upon request.

The Organisation

Burnet Institute is an independent Australian notforprofit medical research institute and DFATaccredited international NGO, with programs operating across Australia, the AsiaPacific and more than 20 countries globally. Burnet uniquely integrates laboratory science, public health research, epidemiology, modelling, policy engagement and ontheground implementation, positioning it at the intersection of research, public health and international development.

The Institute is entering an important period of evolution, including a major physical and ecosystem transition through its relocation to Parkville and its role as a founding partner of the Australian Institute of Infectious Disease, alongside the University of Melbourne and the Doherty Institute. In parallel, Burnet is continuing to strengthen its corporate, financial and philanthropic capability to support longterm impact and sustainability in a changing global funding environment.

Burnet is widely regarded for its commitment to health equity, its emphasis on translation and realworld implementation, and its deep partnerships with governments, communities, NGOs and multilateral organisations. The culture is valuesled, purposeful and collaborative, with a strong sense of responsibility to the communities it serves.

For more information on the organisation visit: https://www.burnet.edu.au/

Applications close: Monday 18 May 2026

To apply - Go to: https://futureleadership.com.au/opportunities/non-executive-directors-3-burnet-institute/

Addressing your cover letter and resume to Sandra Kerr or Anthony Ellis, of Future Leadership™, using reference BURned0426. For further information or a copy of the candidate information pack call 1300 347 437. 

Requirements

The Board is particularly interested in candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Philanthropy and fundraising leadership, including strategic oversight and capability building.
• Strategic finance, with sound financial governance and oversight experience.
• Legal or commercial leadership, with exposure to complex organisational or regulatory environments.

Candidates may be experienced nonexecutive directors or executives seeking their first board role, where leadership capability, judgement and cultural alignment are evident.