We are seeking Expressions of Interest for two new Directors of Peter Cullen Water and Environment Limited.
About the organisation
Peter Cullen Water and Environment Limited operates as a Company Limited by Guarantee and is the Trustee of the Peter Cullen Water and Environment Trust (the Trust). The Company Objects are set by the Trust Deed and are to act for public charitable purposes for:
- protecting and enhancing the Australian natural environment, in particular aquatic environments and their catchments; and
- providing and facilitating learning, communications and informed debate about aquatic environments and their catchments, and about the things that influence them.
To date, the Trust has fulfilled these objects through its flagship leadership programs, national Fellows Network, and other bespoke activities in response to emerging needs of the water and environment sector.
The Trust, established in 2009, is at an exciting point in its journey, with opportunities for new initiatives and impact, guided by Our Strategy 2025-2030 available here: https://www.petercullentrust.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/PCT-Our-Strategy-2025-2030.pdf
About the role
Broadly, the Board of Directors is responsible for driving the strategic direction of the organisation, resourcing, maintaining good governance, monitoring performance, and succession planning.
Directors make an active contribution, encompassing both their core governance role, and extending to focus their energy on key areas of strength and interest to them.
Appointment of Directors will occur at our 2025 AGM in November, for an initial term of three years, with the potential to serve a maximum of three terms.
Formal Board Meetings occur four times per year – twice in person, and twice online. Outside of Board Meetings, Directors are expected to participate in relevant meetings and key events for the Trust, such as meeting potential Graduands, Graduations, etc. Directors may also take up roles in Board sub-committees or progress specific initiatives through working groups etc. The time commitment includes travel to attend meetings in person twice per year, preparation time for meetings and attendance at and participation in meetings and other events.
Remuneration
Board members work on a pro-bono basis and are not entitled to any remuneration for their role as Director. However, the Peter Cullen Trust will meet or reimburse Directors for any reasonable travel and accommodation expenses incurred as part of that Director performing their duties on behalf of the organisation.
How to nominate
Expressions of Interest are invited, closing on 15th October 2025.
Please send your EoI by email to ceo@petercullentrust.com.au. Include a brief Curriculum Vitae, and a 1-2 page cover letter to address the following:
Particular skills and experience sought
The Board seeks to reflect the community we serve and encompass a diversity of experience and perspectives including but not limited to gender, geographic location, Indigenous heritage, professional backgrounds, and areas of interest / experience related to water and environment.
As we embark on our next 5 year strategy, the Board has reviewed our skills, experience and perspectives matrix. As a result of this analysis, we are particularly seeking a Board Director who brings experience/expertise/qualifications in financial accounting/reporting/strategy, especially in a not-for-profit setting. In addition, we are interested in Board Directors who can offer insight to the Trust in AI, fundraising, or branding and communications.
General selection criteria
Candidates must bring the following:
- an understanding of the Trust’s context and the associated challenges and opportunities
- the ability and willingness to devote the necessary time to the role of Director
- a commitment to bringing alive The Peter Cullen Trust’s purpose and principles through demonstrating their orientation to effective collaboration; to embrace diversity of thought, identity and experience; and to allyship
- knowledge and experience of governance and compliance requirements in a not-for-profit setting, including a good understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities of Directors in Australia and demonstrated clarity on the difference between governance and management functions
- experience of leading financial and organisational strategy development and overseeing and monitoring implementation
- relevant networks and the ability to engage new and existing contacts for the benefit of the Trust
Desirable
- Demonstrated leadership and substantial experience in the water, environment or land management sectors; understanding of and ability to talk to the issues in water, environment and land management.
Please note that if successful in being appointed as a Director, you will be required to register for an Australian Director Identification Number (DIN). More information is available here: https://www.abrs.gov.au/director-identification-number
Please contact Rosie Wheen CEO of The Peter Cullen Trust, if you require further information about the opportunity or role.
Rosie Wheen
CEO
0418 580 159
E-mail ceo@petercullentrust.com.au
Working days Monday – Wednesday
