Senior People & Culture Partner

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Senior People & Culture Partner to join our team in Newcastle West, supporting St Nicholas, the Diocese’s Early Childhood Education and Out of School Hours Care (OOSH).

In this pivotal role, you will act as a trusted advisor to leaders and employees, providing expert guidance across a broad range of people and culture matters. You’ll partner closely with leaders to build capability, drive performance, and foster a positive and supportive workplace culture.

You’ll draw on your strong knowledge of P&C practices and employment legislation to provide clear and practical advice, while building trusted relationships with stakeholders at all levels. Your ability to communicate with impact, influence decision-making, and handle sensitive matters with professionalism and confidentiality will see you succeed.

We’re looking for someone with case management experience, solid ER/IR expertise, and the confidence to partner with leaders to achieve both people and business outcomes.

Benefits

• Directly contribute to improving the lives of many in the community.
• Discounted gym membership through Fitness Passport (T&C’s apply).
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• A great friendly environment of dedicated and passionate co-workers.
• Enjoy up to 10% off at top retailers with our mnBenefits program.
• Corporate benefits, including EAP, flu shots and more.
• Modern office facilities including onsite café.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

This strategic role aims to serve as a valuable link with leaders, supporting them in achieving both strategic and operational objectives. The position involves providing contemporary People and Culture services through the development and implementation of management strategies and interventions. Furthermore, it encompasses the delivery of high-quality advice, assistance, and coaching to leaders and staff.

EXPERIENCE/CRITERIA

• Significant experience in providing strategic and tactical advice to senior leaders in an organisation and implementing People and Culture initiatives and programs.
• Ability to engage, inspire, influence, coach and deliver.
• Solid working knowledge of current general P&C practices and processes and awareness of emerging trends.
• Sound knowledge of ER/IR legislation and understanding of current employment regulations.
• Strong interpersonal, relationship and customer service skills, well developed verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong consulting and negotiating skills and business acumen.
• Demonstrated understanding of change management and ability to personally adapt to a changing environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Tertiary Qualifications in Human Resource Management, or equivalent degree qualification
• Current Class C Driver’s Licence
• Current Working With Children Check (WWCC)

To Apply

Please provide a current copy of your Resume and a Cover Letter which addresses the two criterion points below:

• Why you want this role and how it aligns with your career goals.
• Your qualifications and experience in a similar position.

For further information or a confidential conversation about the position, please reach out to Angela Bryant - Employment Relations and Talent Manager: ••••@mn.catholic.org.au

Applications close: 11:59pm Sunday 20 September 2026.

Additional information
The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable persons and preventing those in our care from suffering abuse or neglect. It is committed to implementing and maintaining compliance with the NSW Child Safe Standards and the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards and takes a zero-tolerance approach to abuse of children or vulnerable persons.

All who work in the name of the Diocese must comply with the Diocesan Safeguarding Framework Policy and act in accordance with the Diocese’s Code of Conduct which includes the Diocese’s Safeguarding Commitment Statement. Employees are required to undergo a National Police Check and retain a valid NSW Working with Children Check where necessary, in accordance with legislation.