Description

Independent Director – IPWEA (Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia) Board

• Remuneration: Up to $7,500 AUD per annum
• Location: Australasia (with capacity for international engagement)
• Term: Annual appointment, subject to reappointment and review

About IPWEA

The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) is the peak association representing professionals across the public works, engineering, and infrastructure asset management sectors. With members spanning local and state government, consultancy, academia, and industry, IPWEA is a trusted leader in providing applied knowledge, professional development, and global thought leadership in asset management.

Our internationally recognised publications - including the International Infrastructure Management Manual (IIMM) and the International Infrastructure Financial Management Manual (IIFMM) and are used worldwide as practice standards. IPWEA also delivers accredited training, micro-credentials, and advisory services that build capacity across Australia, New Zealand, and globally.

As we expand nationally and internationally, IPWEA is strengthening its governance capacity by appointing Independent Directors to the Board.

IPWEA has grown considerably over the last five years, increasing revenues, and providing our members and the profession with world leading education. This is an exciting time to be involved with the organisation. IPWEA was named as finalist in Association of the Year in 2024.

Role Overview

The Independent Director will contribute to the strategic direction, governance oversight, and international positioning of IPWEA. Independent Directors bring impartiality, diverse expertise, and a willingness to challenge constructively, ensuring the Board maintains high standards of governance and fulfils its responsibilities to members and stakeholders.

This role offers the opportunity to influence public infrastructure leadership on a global scale, supporting IPWEA’s mission to be the world leader in public works and applied infrastructure asset management practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide independent judgement and constructive challenge to Board deliberations and decision-making.
• Contribute to the ongoing development of IPWEA’s strategy, with a focus on growth, innovation, and global partnerships.
• Ensure governance practices align with best practice standards and IPWEA’s Constitution.
• Support the organisation’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and ethical leadership.
• Champion IPWEA’s international engagement and credibility as *the infrastructure asset management and public works authority*.
• Participate fully in Board meetings (virtual and in-person), committee work, and other governance duties as required. Normally there are five meetings a year.

Candidate Profile

Skills and Capabilities

Required:

• Experience in commercialising opportunities in new markets (either domestic or international)
• Senior leadership and governance experience.
• Strong understanding of strategy, risk management, infrastructure and/or public works with the ability to add depth to the Board’s capability matrix.

Desired:

• Experience in engaging diverse groups, with a strong focus on human-centred design, equity, and inclusion.
• Experience in dealing with legal matters, such as corporate governance, contracts, compliance, or regulatory frameworks.
• Understanding of the not-for-profit and professional association environment.

Independence

Free from any business or other relationship that could materially, or be perceived to materially, interfere with the exercise of independent judgement.

Diversity

Candidates from diverse professional, cultural, and geographic backgrounds are strongly encouraged.

Character and Integrity

Demonstrated ethical behaviour, reputation for integrity, and sound judgement. Clean background checks including ASIC, credit history, and referee confirmation.

Appointment Terms

• Independent Directors are appointed on an annual basis, with reappointment subject to performance, skills relevance, and continued independence.
• Remuneration is up to $7,500 AUD per annum.
• Independence status is assessed annually in accordance with IPWEA’s Independent Director Selection Policy.

How to Apply

Expressions of interest should include a CV and a covering letter outlining suitability for the role, addressing the skills and independence criteria. Shortlisted candidates will undergo interviews and due diligence, including independence assessment and background checks. CVs and covering letter should be sent to [email protected]. Please call the CEO, David Jenkins on 0412 533 450 for a confidential chat should you have any questions.