Regional Manager - Port Pirie Diocese
Catholic Education, Australia
About the role
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Four-year contract with a 2027 commencement
Relocation assistance available
The Opportunity
This is a significant system leadership opportunity for an experienced educational leader to shape the quality, performance and future direction of Catholic Education South Australia. Reporting to the Director, Schools and Early Years Services, you will join a team of five Regional Managers, with the 14 schools across the Diocese of Port Pirie forming your portfolio. Working across a network that stretches from the outback to the coast, you will connect communities, support and hold principals accountable, and lead improvement that strengthens Catholic identity, student outcomes and school sustainability.
Key responsibilities:
Promote Catholic identity and mission across all schools, supporting principals to embed faith, formation and quality religious education in school life.
Line manage, mentor and professionally support diocesan principals, with clear expectations for leadership performance, school improvement and system alignment.
Use school performance, wellbeing, compliance and operational data to identify priorities, manage risk and lead targeted improvement.
Translate system strategy into clear regional priorities and lead evidence-informed change across diverse school contexts.
Build leadership capability through coaching, talent identification, succession planning and development of high-performing, mission-aligned leaders.
Strengthen partnerships with parishes, communities, governing authorities and Catholic Education Office teams while travelling regularly throughout the Diocese.
About You
We are seeking an accomplished Catholic educational leader who brings credibility, a strong improvement mindset and the energy to lead across a geographically diverse region. You will be someone who:
Is an active witness and role model of the Catholic faith and can lead with a clear commitment to the mission and values of Catholic education.
Has successful experience as a principal, preferably in Catholic education, supported by deep knowledge of school leadership.
Can lead complex change, set strategic direction and use evidence and data to drive measurable improvement in learning, wellbeing, equity and inclusion.
Builds trusted relationships, communicates with influence and can work effectively with principals, clergy, communities and senior stakeholders.
Is comfortable travelling regularly throughout regional, rural and remote South Australia and values the opportunity to connect communities across the Diocese of Port Pirie.
Holds a teaching degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification, preferably at Masters level or higher. Studies in Theology and/or Scripture will be highly regarded.
For further information, refer to the Position Description [insert hyperlink].
Why Us?
This position offers a rare opportunity to lead across a connected network where regional context, community relationships and local impact matter. You will join a mission-led system committed to quality education, strong leadership and the growth of every child and young person.
Lead 14 vibrant schools and colleges supporting more than 4,250 students and 400 dedicated staff.
Work across communities spanning nearly one million square kilometers, from the outback to the coast.
Shape regional strategy and school improvement at a system level while remaining closely connected to local communities.
Receive a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a four-year contract and relocation assistance.
About Us
Catholic Education South Australia (CESA) supports Catholic schools and education offices across metropolitan, regional, rural and remote communities. Our schools and offices work in partnership with families, parishes and the wider Church to provide quality, faith-based education that supports every child and young person to grow academically, spiritually and personally. Grounded in Catholic faith and values, we are committed to inclusive, contemporary and high-quality education, strong leadership and communities where people can thrive.
How to Apply
Applications open Friday 16 October 2026 and close Monday 2 November 2026.
Please submit:
A cover letter of no more than two A4 pages outlining your relevant experience, motivation for applying and what you hope to contribute to the CESA community.
Your resume, including contact details of a professional referee and your parish priest.
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Abbie Bortolotti, Talent Management Lead on 0409 695 942.
Catholic Education South Australia is committed to ensuring the safety, wellbeing and dignity of all children and young people. Screening requirements apply.