About the College The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) is a member-based not-for-profit supporting over 8,600 surgeons and 1,300 trainees and Specialist International Medical Graduates across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. We advocate for excellence in surgical care, deliver world-class education and training, invest in research, and partner across the Asia-Pacific to strengthen local surgical services.
Learn more at surgeons.org.
About the team The People & Culture team is a collaborative and forward-focused function supporting leaders and employees across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
We partner closely with the business to deliver practical, high-quality people support, while also progressing key organisational priorities across leadership, performance, engagement and employee experience.
The team brings together expertise across business partnering, people operations, systems and payroll, working together to deliver consistent, efficient and people-centred outcomes. We’re a supportive team that values accountability, continuous improvement and working together to get things done.
About the role As a People & Culture Business Partner, you will support a defined two portfolios of approximately 125 employees, working closely with executive and people leaders to deliver practical, people-focused strategic outcomes.
This is a true partnering role but grounded in day-to-day impact. You’ll work with leaders to build capability, manage people matters, and support the consistent application of People & Culture practices across portfolios and support the delivery of strategic outcomes. You’ll also contribute to broader People & Culture initiatives, helping to embed key programs and improve employee experience across the organisation.
This is a maximum term, full-time role based in East Melbourne, supporting a portfolio across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
What you’ll be doing • Partner with leaders to provide timely, practical advice across the employee lifecycle • Support workforce planning, recruitment and organisational change activity within your portfolios • Coach leaders on performance, development and employee relations matters • Manage employee relations and workplace issues with sound judgement and a solutions-focused approach • Support the delivery of key People & Culture initiatives, including performance, engagement and capability development • Use workforce information to identify trends and inform decision-making • Ensure policies and processes are applied consistently and in line with legislative requirements
About you You’re a capable HR professional who enjoys working closely with leaders and being part of a collaborative team. You bring a balanced approach—practical, commercially aware, and focused on outcomes.
You will have: • Experience in a HR Advisor or Business Partner role supporting a defined portfolio • Solid knowledge of Australian employment legislation and employee relations • Confidence working with leaders to support strategic initiatives, manage performance and people matters • The ability to prioritise and manage competing demands • Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills • A proactive, solutions-focused mindset • Experience in a not-for-profit or member-based organisation is helpful but not essential.
What success looks like in this role • Leaders feel supported and confident managing their teams • People matters are handled proactively and consistently • Strong relationships are built across your portfolios • Meaningful contribution to People & Culture priorities
Your experience with us We’re committed to creating a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and able to do their best work. We invest in your wellbeing, professional growth and work-life balance. Our benefits reflect our dedication to a positive, safe and inclusive culture. Read more about what we offer you here.
Key benefits include: • Competitive base salary + super + salary packaging up to $15,900 • Hybrid working arrangements • New starter equipment allowance • Generous leave options including volunteer leave, paid parental leave and purchased leave • Wellbeing app and annual wellbeing reimbursement • Additional end-of-year wellbeing leave • Access to counselling, legal advice, career coaching and financial support services
How to apply Click “Apply” to submit your application. Please include your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience relevant to the role.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so we encourage you to apply early. For any questions, please contact careers@surgeons.org.
Applications must be made using our application system. Application received via email will not be accepted. We kindly ask that recruitment agencies do not submit applications for this role
Everyone is welcome We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. We are committed to supporting diversity and inclusion in our workforce.
RACS recognises the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people as the traditional landowners of Australia and Māori as the tangatawhenua (people of the land) of Aotearoa New Zealand. We are committed to creating employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and Māori and building an environment that is inclusive, culturally safe and appropriate.
