Independent Director- Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand

Independent Director

Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP)

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) is seeking to appoint an Independent Director to its Board under the Appointed Director provisions of the Constitution.

About the opportunity

This appointment comes at a pivotal time for the College.

Following an external evaluation of Board and Committee effectiveness, the Board is progressing a targeted program of governance enhancement to strengthen independence, accountability, and strategic oversight.

The appointment of an Independent Director is a key element of this work. The role is designed to bring an external, objective perspective to Board deliberations and provide constructive challenge to support high-quality decision-making.

The successful candidate will contribute to the Board’s stewardship of the College as it navigates a complex and evolving environment, while continuing to advance its role in supporting the psychiatry profession and improving mental health outcomes across Australia and New Zealand.

You can find more information about the RANZCP Board and the Independent Director opportunity here (copy and paste into browser) https://www.ranzcp.org/college-committees/committees,-faculties,-sections-networks/board-elections/ranzcp-independent-director-appointment

Strategic context

Key areas of Board focus over the next 3–5 years include:

• Strengthening governance frameworks and Board effectiveness
• Supporting organisational reform and continuous improvement
• Enhancing member engagement and trust across a diverse membership base
• Responding to evolving mental health system, workforce, and policy challenges

Key details

• Title: Independent Director
• Term: Two-year term, commencing June 2026 and concluding May 2028.
• Time commitment: Must attend 75% of Board Meeting (7-10 per year); plus attend and participate at the RANZCP Congress, Members’ Advisory Council and allocated Board Committee/s.
• Remuneration: Unpaid voluntary position. Travel and related expenses provided.
• Location: Australia and New Zealand
• Travel: Travel will be required to attend in-person Board and Committee meetings

Skills and experience

The Board is seeking a candidate who brings strong governance capability and an independent perspective.

We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate capability across the AICD competency domains, and meet the following Role Requirements (as identified in the Position Description):

• Meet the eligibility requirements for a Director under the Corporations Act 2001.
• Have demonstrated 5 to 7 years’ prior or current experience as a Company Director or Secretary.
• Be a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ Course, New Zealand Institute of Directors’ Course, or an appropriate equivalent course.
• Have demonstrated expertise in governance or corporate strategy, with a strong understanding of fiduciary and ethical obligations.

Desirable skills and experience

• Previous experience as a Board Director in a not-for-profit, healthcare, regulatory or professional membership organisation, ensuring familiarity with governance best practices.
• An intermediate understanding of psychiatry and mental health services in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
• Able to contribute to policy development and organisational decision making.

Candidates must be able to meet independence requirements, including not being a Fellow, employee, or recent contractor of the RANZCP, and being free from conflicts that could compromise independent judgement.

Personal qualities

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• An independent mindset, with the confidence to provide constructive challenge
• Strong strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A collaborative and respectful approach to collective decision-making
• A clear commitment to integrity, purpose, and inclusive leadership
• Support for diversity, inclusion, and cultural safety in governance processes is desirable.

Governance, conduct and integrity

Appointment is subject to meeting the College’s fit and proper person requirements, satisfactory conflict of interest disclosures, and alignment with RANZCP’s values, Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics.

Directors are expected to uphold high standards of professional conduct, including collegiality, confidentiality, respect for differing views, and accountability in governance.

The appointment will be made in accordance with the Appointment of an Appointed or Casual Vacancy Director to the Board Procedure. A police check will form part of the appointment process.

Diversity and inclusion

RANZCP is committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects the communities it serves.

We strongly encourage applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, women, and people with disability.

How to apply

Applications should include:

• A curriculum vitae
• A cover letter outlining relevant skills and experience
• Contact details for two professional referees
• Applications open: 20 April
• Applications close: 5:00pm AEST 11 May