Job Title
Chief Financial Officer
Job Description
Help drive excellence in finance and risk leadership at one of Australia’s leading medical research institutes.
WEHI is seeking an experienced Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead the organisation’s financial and risk management functions. This is a pivotal leadership role focused on the core responsibilities — finance, risk, and oversight of legal.
About WEHI
Founded in 1915 as the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, WEHI is a globally recognised leader in biomedical science. As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, we are driven by scientific excellence and the pursuit of knowledge. Our research spans fundamental discovery through to clinical translation, addressing some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.
Who we are looking for
This role suits a leader who brings both technical excellence and human insight — someone who is as comfortable in the details of financial operations and risk frameworks as they are in cultivating a collaborative and values-based culture.

Key search criteria

• Tertiary qualifications in accounting, finance, business, or a related field; professional accounting qualifications (e.g., CA/CPA) required.
• Extensive experience in senior financial leadership roles, preferably as a CFO and ideally within a complex grant funded non-profit organisation.
• Proven track record in driving maturity of the risk management culture within an organization, including development of enterprise-wide risk frameworks, assurance processes, and the implementation of compliance systems.
• Proven track record in financial strategy, budgeting, and reporting, with experience in providing strategic financial advice to senior leadership.
• Experience with financial software systems and risk management tools, and the ability to integrate new systems to improve efficiency and reporting accuracy.
• An ability to present complex financial and risk information to senior stakeholders in an accessible and strategic manner.
• Skilled in handling complex issues diplomatically and negotiating optimal outcomes in challenging situations.
• Strong leadership capabilities, with a focus on staff development and empowerment, while acknowledging and leveraging individual contributions.
• Exceptional oral, written, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to build and manage relationships with a broad range of stakeholders, together with the aptitude to interact with both technical and non-technical groups.
• Proven ability to lead change and innovation, fostering adaptability and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Experience in defining and executing long-term strategic goals, with a clear focus on supporting the Institute’s broader objectives and vision.

Why join WEHI?
At WEHI, you’ll be part of a leading medical research institute dedicated to making discoveries to help people live healthier, longer lives. We provide an exceptional environment where innovation thrives, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and strong institutional backing.
As an independent organisation, WEHI sets its own scientific priorities, ensuring research excellence remains at the core of everything we do. This unique autonomy creates a dynamic, forward-thinking culture that values integrity, collaboration, and impact.
WEHI is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and flexible workplace. We actively support equity and work-life balance, believing that a collaborative and diverse community drives better science and stronger outcomes.
Join WEHI and lead with purpose in a role where your financial and risk expertise will directly support life-changing medical research and help build a resilient, future-focused organisation.
To apply

Please submit the following documents to be considered for this role:

• A cover letter outlining your interest and suitability for the position
• A response addressing the key selection criteria
• A current CV detailing your qualifications and experience

We look forward to receiving your application and thank you for your interest in joining WEHI.
For more details about the role and WEHI, please refer to the brochure
here
.
For enquiries, please email
recruitment@wehi.edu.au
Application closing date
The closing date for applications is 22 July 2025 However, we will be reviewing applications as they are received, and WEHI reserves the right to appoint a suitable candidate prior to the closing date.
We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing this opportunity

• A cover letter outlining your interest and suitability for the position
• A response addressing the key selection criteria
• A current CV detailing your qualifications and experienc