Aleisha Molyneux-Heard
Darwin,NT
Summary
Senior Northern Territory Government Leader experienced in leading complex, high-risk programs across housing, workforce, education, and regional service delivery. Delivered large-scale system reform and managed significant budgets while advising CEOs and Senior Executives and fostering partnerships with Ministers, agencies, and Aboriginal organisations. Demonstrated strong executive judgement and cultural capability in navigating politically sensitive environments and addressing complex public sector challenges.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Manager Workforce & Regional Development (SA01.3)
NTG Department of People, Sport & Culture
Darwin, NT
09.2024 - Current
- Leading system-level workforce strategies across government and community sectors, with a strong focus on equity and regional inclusion.
- Drove multi-agency partnerships to achieve integrated policy outcomes in sport, education, health, and Indigenous affairs.
- Developed ministerial briefs, assisted with Cabinet submissions, and created high-level reports that informed legislative compliance, budget builds, estimate briefs, and executive decision-making.
- Embedded First Nations perspectives, cultural safety, and diversity frameworks into program delivery and organisational leadership to enhance inclusivity.
- Steering department-level reform in response to Machinery of Government changes and aligning with returning the Territory lifestyle pillar.
- Leading systemic reform through data-informed program design, continuous improvement practices, and outcomes-based evaluation.
- Building strategic alliances with regional councils, Peak Sporting Bodies, non-government agencies, federal agencies to influence sustainable regional outcomes.
- Championing organisational change initiatives through MoG, ensuring alignment with NTPS priorities and evolving community needs.
A/ Senior Director GEH Program (SA02/EC01)
NTG Department of Housing, Local Government & Community Development
Darwin, NT
07.2025 - 01.2026
- Led strategic redevelopment and implementation of the Government Employee Housing decentralisation model, transitioning from a centralised structure to regionally empowered delivery supported by a new corporate governance framework.
- Accountable for program governance, performance, and risk management in alignment with Ministerial direction and Departmental strategic priorities.
- Accountable for a $40M operational budget and oversight of $140M+ forward capital investment across a 10-year horizon.
- Established performance KPIs, service standards, and accountability mechanisms enhancing transparency, customer outcomes, and regional capability.
- Initiated and led the Industry Housing Reform Project, defining long-term program direction, resourcing, and budget structure aligned with NT Government growth forecasts.
- Developed and implemented a two-tier Security Standards Framework for GEH-owned assets, enhancing compliance and risk mitigation across the portfolio.
- Established and led a new corporate support team providing strategic, financial, and operational oversight to the GEH Program.
- Provided high-level advice and data-informed recommendations to the CEO Housing and Senior Executive Group on workforce housing, asset management, and regional service delivery.
- Led cross-agency collaboration with police, health, education, corrections, and infrastructure agencies to align housing policy with operational outcomes.
- Partnered with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal Corporations across Nhulunbuy, Jabiru, and Tennant Creek to support self-determination, local economic participation, and culturally appropriate housing solutions.
Personal Trainer
Personal Trainer & Strength & Conditioning Coach (Own Business)
Darwin, NT
01.2014 - 12.2024
- Created tailored fitness programs addressing unique client goals and abilities.
- Facilitated one-on-one training sessions to improve client strength and conditioning.
- Monitored client progress and adjusted training plans accordingly.
- Implemented safety protocols to ensure client well-being during workouts.
- Operated personal training business to help clients achieve fitness goals.
- Formulated targeted marketing strategies to increase client acquisition and retention.
Higher Education Project Manager (ST1)
NTG Education, NT
Darwin, NT
01.2024 - 09.2024
- Engaged key stakeholders to develop higher education pathways for remote Aboriginal educators, fostering collaboration with regional directors, senior government officials, principals, and education personnel.
- Coordinated project planning aligned with departmental strategic objectives, managing stakeholder relationships with university and key governmental entities.
- Developed detailed project plans that outlined critical milestones and deliverables for education programs.
- Overseeing and evaluating risks intrinsic to the higher education project, implementing robust measures for risk mitigation and continual monitoring.
- Analyzing Northern Territory data to discern actionable insights, thereby informing future project planning endeavors grounded in substantive data analysis methodologies.
- Coordinated timelines for projects across various educational initiatives to ensure alignment.
- Compiled and disseminated progress reports and ministerial reports, facilitating effective data sharing processes.
- Crafting meticulous manuals, reports, and training materials tailored to foster the professional growth of learning leaders within the organization.
Teacher
NTG Education, NT
Darwin, NT
01.2023 - 12.2023
- Facilitated education programs for incarcerated youth within a youth detention center, promoting engagement and personal growth in a supportive learning environment.
- Implemented trauma-informed teaching practices, utilizing the Berry Street Model to address the diverse needs of students impacted by trauma.
- Instructed English as an Additional Language (EASL) students, with a focus on empowering First Nations youth through culturally responsive teaching methods.
- Delivered instruction to a high-needs, special needs cohort, employing differentiated instruction techniques to meet individual learning requirements.
- Completed MacqLit training, demonstrating proficiency in evidence-based literacy instruction methodologies.
- Delivered HEAL (Health Education and Life Skills) curriculum through distance education and vocational programs, enhancing accessibility and relevance for diverse student populations.
- Generated comprehensive educational reports for court hearings, EAPs, and case workers, offering critical insights into student progress and educational needs.
- Collaborated closely with Danila Dilba, Territory Families, psychologists, and case workers to develop and implement tailored teaching strategies, fostering student engagement and building capacity among high-needs learners.
People & Culture Manager
Katherine West Health Board, NT
Darwin, NT
08.2022 - 12.2022
- Spearheaded the Human Resources Team, demonstrating leadership in developing and implementing innovative onboarding and offboarding strategies to enhance employee engagement and retention.
- Orchestrated the recruitment process for Allied Health professionals, overseeing advertising, interviewing, and selection procedures to attract top talent aligned with organizational objectives.
- Designed and implemented training compliance initiatives in alignment with the organization's strategic plan, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and industry standards.
- Provided comprehensive training, development, and coaching to the HR team, focusing on industrial relations (IR), enterprise agreement (EA) compliance, and legal responsibilities.
- Collaborated with Senior Leadership team to provide guidance on HR matters and support grievance resolution.
- Developed culturally appropriate induction and orientation training programs, fostering a welcoming and inclusive organizational culture.
- Engaged stakeholders, including allied health professionals and board members, to align HR initiatives with strategic plan.
Teacher & Vocational Education Trainer (Casual)
Catholic Education NT/NSW department of Education/SEDA secondary Education
Darwin, NT
01.2021 - 12.2022
- Developed engaging lesson plans to enhance student understanding and align with curriculum standards.
- Implemented assessment strategies to gauge student progress and inform instructional adjustments.
- Adapted instructional methods to effectively meet diverse learning styles and promote inclusivity.
Mining Engineer Cadet
Macarthur River Mine, NT
02.2022 - 07.2022
- Successfully completed Mine Site Induction for open pit mining operations, demonstrating adherence to safety protocols and regulations in a high-risk environment.
- Worked at heights and operated within blast crew, upholding quality assurance and quality control standards during detonation procedures.
- Skilled in loading blast holes with detonators and bomb emulsion, as well as tying in patterns for controlled explosions, prioritizing safety and efficiency in all tasks.
- Utilized blastIQ software to optimize blast design and execution processes, enhancing safety and operational productivity.
- Demonstrated safe use of personal protective equipment (PPE) within the mine pit, including blast guards and effective communication protocols, to mitigate risks and ensure a safe working environment.
- Applied technical expertise in mine technology, including temperature mapping patterns and modular data input for drill rigs, while managing Excel-based drill report data entry.
- Managed general warehouse systems and ordering processes, ensuring efficient inventory management and timely fulfillment of operational requirements.
- Currently pursuing a Diploma in Surface Mining, further enhancing skills and knowledge in mining operations and safety practices.
Remote Lecturer and Workplace Assessor – Sport & Recreation
Charles Darwin University, NT
07.2022 - 02.2022
- Spearheaded workplace training and assessment initiatives in remote NT communities, expanding delivery across Roper Gulf Shire, McDonnell Shire, Central Desert Shire, and Vic Daly Shire councils to enhance access to vocational education.
- Successfully delivered Certificate II, III, and IV in Sport and Recreation to Indigenous learners with diverse learning needs, fostering skill development and employment opportunities.
- Implemented strategies resulting in increased enrolments in VET programs at Alice Springs schools, enhancing access to vocational education opportunities for students.
- Developed comprehensive training materials and assessments aligned with vocational education matrices, ensuring curriculum relevance and adherence to industry standards.
- Engaged in business development with state and local government entities, aligning initiatives with federal objectives to promote educational equity and address achievement gaps.
- Traversed remote areas throughout the NT to deliver educational programs and support services, demonstrating adaptability and commitment to reaching underserved communities.
- Fostered collaboration with external stakeholders, including councils, schools, and non-profit organizations, to achieve shared educational objectives and promote community engagement.
- Proficiently utilized computer systems such as Callista (CRM), erollbooks, Microsoft Teams, Area52, and Microsoft applications to streamline administrative processes and facilitate effective communication and collaboration.
Injury Management Advisor – Lifetime Care (MAC)
TIO, Darwin, NT
04.2018 - 07.2019
- Managed a portfolio exceeding $25 million under the Motor Accident Compensation Scheme (MAC) within the framework of NT Government legislation, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and optimizing financial management practices.
- Oversaw a diverse portfolio of individuals with disabilities, notably spinal and severe traumatic brain injuries, with a predominant Indigenous representation comprising 80%, of which 90% resided in remote Indigenous communities, while honoring cultural considerations.
- Facilitated direct consultations with allied health professionals, educators, and government agencies such as the Office of the Public Guardian and the Department of Education, fostering collaborative partnerships to address the needs of clients effectively.
- Directed budgetary allocations of up to $7 million annually, forecasting expenditures over an 80-year period to ensure responsible financial planning and stewardship.
- Conducted case conferences both in-person and via teleconference with multidisciplinary treating teams to strategize and achieve optimal outcomes for clients.
- Coordinated logistical arrangements for accommodation, flights, charters, and taxis to ensure seamless relocations from remote communities, enhancing client access to essential services.
- Maintained rigorous reporting standards by submitting monthly reports to the Commissioner, consistently meeting established Government Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to uphold integrity of the scheme.
- Fostered close collaboration with providers of the National Disability Scheme (NDIS) and mental health professionals to streamline service delivery and enhance client support.
- Orchestrated medical appointments, arranging interpreters proficient in various Indigenous languages to facilitate effective communication and accessibility for clients from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Centre Manager
YMCA Palmerston Swimming & Fitness Centre, NT
- Directed recruitment, training, and supervision of a team of 29 lifeguards, group fitness instructors, and duty managers, aligning their performance with council contract obligations and ensuring excellence in customer service, sales, and lifesaving practices.
- Implemented a strategic timetable and scheduling overhaul, informed by comprehensive demographic analysis conducted through online surveys, resulting in a notable 15% increase in centre participation rates.
- Orchestrated operations for multifaceted leisure centre with 29 employees, ensuring compliance with local council contracts and regulatory requirements to maintain service quality.
- Spearheaded development of innovative programs and initiatives aligned with YMCA community engagement objectives, strengthening center's role as a hub for social interaction and wellness.
- Fostered collaborative partnerships with the local council to tailor facility offerings to meet the diverse needs of the community, including specialized activities and programs catering to minority groups such as the disabled, Indigenous, and senior participants.
- Managed kiosk operations, including ordering, invoicing, payroll, and staff rostering, leveraging QuickBooks to streamline financial and administrative processes.
State Operations Manager
Touch Football Australia, NT
- Successfully secured over $100,000 in government funding within the initial 5 months of assuming the position through strategic grant applications and effective advocacy.
- Developed and managed budget exceeding half a million dollars, supporting increased participation and revenue generation while leading five district touch football competitions in Darwin, Palmerston, Gove, Katherine, and Alice Springs.
- Oversaw operations for State's premier sporting organization, managing employees, volunteers, referees, and coaching staff to ensure coordinated execution of activities.
- Spearheaded development of state competitions and event planning, promoting healthy community initiatives and fostering culture of active living and wellbeing.
- Implemented inaugural Junior competitions in Darwin and Palmerston, resulting in a remarkable 100% increase in junior participation, thereby fostering grassroots engagement and talent development.
- Led two junior and two senior teams to the State Championships, representing the region on a national stage and competing against teams from across Australia, showcasing exceptional leadership and team performance.
- Collaborated closely with local councils and governments on community planning initiatives for sporting infrastructure, contributing to the development of vibrant and inclusive sporting environments.
- Proficiently utilized SportsTG system for competition management, enrollments, and CRM database usage, optimizing administrative efficiency and data management processes.
Education
Diploma - Project Management
CDU
01.2025
Certificate IV - Work Health & Safety
CDU
01.2025
Bachelor - Psychological Sciences
CDU
01.2023
Graduate Certificate - Change Management
CDU
01.2023
Certificate IV - TAE40116 Training and assessment
CDU
01.2021
M.D. - High School Teaching
CDU
Darwin, NT01-2021
Bachelor - Exercise & Sports Science
CDU
01.2018
Diploma - Nutrition & Dietetics for PT
CDU
01.2015
Certificate III - Group Fitness
CDU
01.2014
BBA - Business
Southern Cross University
NSW01-2011
Certificate III - Agriculture
CDU
01.2003
Certificate IV - Human Resource Management
TAFE NSW
NSWSkills
- Workforce development
- Program governance
- Strategic planning
- Stakeholder engagement
- Policy writing
- Project management
- Budget management
- Budget oversight
- Data analysis
- Data analytics
- Troubleshooting and problem resolution
- Performance evaluation
- Innovation management
- Cultural competency
References
- Mitch Hardy, General Manager, NTG DPSC, 0400224354
- Alan Moore, Executive Director, NTG DHLGCD, 0429554604
Boards Committees
- Chairperson of Body Corporate 2023
- Women’s Football Coordinator – Port Darwin FC
- Women and girls AFL NT Steering Committee
- Barkly Regional Coords – intermittent member
- Australian Sports Commission- Play Well Strategy Think tank participant
Ntg Courses Short Courses
- Merit Selection Training
- Foundations of Public Governance
- OneNTG writing for Government
- Practical Public Policy Design
- Leadership for new managers NTG (enrolled)
- CDU Short Course- Data Visualisation with Power BI (enrolled)
Timeline
A/ Senior Director GEH Program (SA02/EC01)
NTG Department of Housing, Local Government & Community Development
07.2025 - 01.2026
Senior Manager Workforce & Regional Development (SA01.3)
NTG Department of People, Sport & Culture
09.2024 - Current
Higher Education Project Manager (ST1)
NTG Education, NT
01.2024 - 09.2024
Teacher
NTG Education, NT
01.2023 - 12.2023
People & Culture Manager
Katherine West Health Board, NT
08.2022 - 12.2022
Remote Lecturer and Workplace Assessor – Sport & Recreation
Charles Darwin University, NT
07.2022 - 02.2022
Mining Engineer Cadet
Macarthur River Mine, NT
02.2022 - 07.2022
Teacher & Vocational Education Trainer (Casual)
Catholic Education NT/NSW department of Education/SEDA secondary Education
01.2021 - 12.2022
Injury Management Advisor – Lifetime Care (MAC)
TIO, Darwin, NT
04.2018 - 07.2019
Personal Trainer
Personal Trainer & Strength & Conditioning Coach (Own Business)
01.2014 - 12.2024
Centre Manager
YMCA Palmerston Swimming & Fitness Centre, NT
State Operations Manager
Touch Football Australia, NT
Diploma - Project Management
CDU
Certificate IV - Work Health & Safety
CDU
Bachelor - Psychological Sciences
CDU
Graduate Certificate - Change Management
CDU
Certificate IV - TAE40116 Training and assessment
CDU
M.D. - High School Teaching
CDU
Bachelor - Exercise & Sports Science
CDU
Diploma - Nutrition & Dietetics for PT
CDU
Certificate III - Group Fitness
CDU
BBA - Business
Southern Cross University
Certificate III - Agriculture
CDU
Certificate IV - Human Resource Management
TAFE NSW