Deputy Director

Join Our Community Hub as Deputy Director 

North Sydney Community Centre is a not for profit, community based and independently managed organisation, operating from the heart of North Sydney. It is a vibrant hub of activity!

The Centre offers a diverse range of community programs including workshops and events, adult classes, After School Care, Northside Produce Market, Explorer’s Playgroup and venue hire. Each term over 100 classes, workshops and events are offered during the week and weekends. We produce the twice-monthly Northside Produce Market, and most weekends there is a busy schedule of regular and casual venue hirers.

The team

The Deputy Director plays an integral role as the right hand to the Director, assisting with the smooth running of the centre with a support focus on HR, accounts and operations.  Each area of the centre’s services has a coordinator, and you will work closely with all of these centre coordinators.

You will also work closely with our bookkeeper. From the buzzing Northside Produce Market to our vibrant classes and workshops, you’ll be working alongside colleagues who are dedicated, enthusiastic, and genuinely care about the community we serve.

Who are we looking for

Someone with relevant experience in a similar type of role. This role is ideal for someone who combines strong organisational skills with a genuine love of working with people. You will need to have experience with accounts, staffing and general small business operations. You’re self‑motivated, enthusiastic, detail‑driven, and confident with technology, thriving in a process‑oriented environment.

As Deputy Director, you’ll play a pivotal role in keeping our Centre running smoothly and ensuring it remains a welcoming hub for thousands of locals each year — supporting everything from playgroups to produce markets.

About the role

Working closely with the Director, you’ll oversee accounts processes, basic HR, compliance and general operations, ensuring the Centre runs seamlessly. From payroll and audits to supporting staff, and liaising with Council, you’ll be a key leader in our organisation.

• Full-time role with family-friendly hours (9am–4pm, Monday–Friday)
• Competitive pay under the SCHCADS Award 5.1, plus superannuation, car parking spot, annual leave, and carers’ leave.
• You are required to work occasionally on after-hours events e.g. The Centre AGM
• A probationary period of 3 months will apply

Job Title: Deputy Director – Position Overview

The Deputy Director plays the key lead role in supporting the centre Director with smooth financial and operational running of North Sydney Community Centre (NSCC). This position oversees accounting processes, compliance, and reporting, while also assisting with human resources, audits, and general management of the Centre’s programs and staff.

The role acts as second-in-charge to the Director, and provides operational support during periods of leave as well as having input into the overall governance, planning, and community engagement of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management (Xero & Banking)

• Oversee all accounting processes using Xero, including:
  • Payroll and timesheet processing o Superannuation and ATO payments o Adding and onboarding new employees o End-of-month reconciliation and reporting o Processing bills and invoices Operating Centre bank accounts:
  • Monitor and reconcile transactions o Process transfers between accounts
  • Manage EFTPOS machines, paper rolls, and credit card payments Supervise cash handling procedures, including:
  • Safe access, change distribution, and deposits o Recording all cash movements from Xero to bank
• Prepare and submit financial documents for audit, in collaboration with the Director and bookkeeper/accountant.
• Support with annual budget, financial reporting, and funding acquittals.

Human Resources & Compliance

• Assist with staff management and HR processes: contracts, onboarding, and performance documentation.
• Update payroll and employment records in Xero in coordination with the Director.
• Ensure adherence to safety and compliance requirements, including incident reporting, evacuation procedures, and fire drills.
• Support the Director with PRODA, ACECQA, and related accreditation documentation.

Operational & Administrative Support

• Oversee Centre administration: mail sorting, filing, and document management.
• Support annual audit, monthly Committee meeting reports, AGM preparation, including editing staff reports and compiling annual documentation.
• Manage repairs and general Council liaison points
• Maintain communication with Council, Committee members, and key stakeholders during Director absences.
• Liaise across teams to ensure compliance, timely invoicing, payment reconciliation, insurance checks, and record management.
• Collaborate with the Director and Marketing team on community events, AGM organisation, and public engagement.

Skills & Experience

• Demonstrable Minimum 3 years of experience in financial administration, accounting, and operations coordination (preferably in the community or NFP sector).
• Strong proficiency in Xero and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Excellent understanding of bookkeeping, payroll, and reconciliation processes.
• High attention to detail, strong organisational skills, and ability to manage competing deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a small team.
• Understanding of HR processes, compliance, and audit preparation is desirable.
• Experience with community programs or local government engagement is highly regarded.
• Experience with fundraising is desirable.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable, proactive, and adaptable, with strong problem-solving ability.
• Discreet and trustworthy with sensitive financial and HR information.
• Supportive team player who can step into leadership responsibilities when required.
• Commitment to NSCC’s mission of fostering inclusive, creative, and community-focused programs.

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

Be part of a supportive, enthusiastic team who collaborate closely and celebrate each other’s wins. Work in a dynamic, creative environment where no two days are the same. Enjoy perks like discounted venue hire, reduced After School Care rates, and access to our classes and workshops. Plus, we invest in your growth with annual CPR and Child Safety training.”

Make a difference by helping keep our Centre running smoothly for thousands of locals each year.

Please forward your CV and a cover letter clearly outlining your experience and suitability for this role to the Director, North Sydney Community Centre by email to: director@northsydneycentre.com.au. For further information please call 02 9922 2299.