Charlie Sharples
Darwin,NT
Summary
Proud Kaytetye man born in Alice Springs and raised on Larrakia Country. An accomplished Aboriginal executive leader with extensive experience in organisational leadership, governance, operational management, workforce development and community engagement.
Currently serving as Interim Chief Executive Officer of CAAPS Aboriginal Corporation, providing executive leadership across rehabilitation and social and emotional wellbeing services, governance, compliance, financial oversight, workforce management and stakeholder engagement. Prior to appointment as Interim CEO, served as a Director of CAAPS, providing strategic governance and Board oversight.
Recognised for building accountable workplace cultures, strengthening organisational performance and fostering strategic partnerships with Aboriginal communities, government agencies, funding bodies and service providers. Committed to advancing culturally safe services and achieving sustainable outcomes for Aboriginal people, families and communities.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Interim Chief Executive Officer
CAAPS Aboriginal Corporation
Darwin, Northern Territory
07.2026 - Current
- Led organisational strategy to enhance operational performance.
- Advised board of directors with comprehensive support and reporting.
- Ensured compliance with funding agreements, legislation, and regulatory standards.
- Oversaw governance, risk management, and accountability initiatives.
- Managed senior leadership team, facilitating effective communication and collaboration.
- Oversaw financial management, ensuring budget adherence and resource allocation.
- Led strategic planning sessions to define organisational goals and priorities.
- Directed workforce management and initiatives for performance improvement.
- Represented CAAPS before government agencies, funding partners, stakeholders, and Aboriginal communities.
- Drove continuous improvement efforts to ensure long-term organisational sustainability
Commercial Operations Manager
Ironbark Services NT (ISNT)
Darwin, Northern Territory
05.2022 - 07.2026
- Lead operational oversight of ISNT commercial businesses, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and alignment with corporate strategy and cultural values.
- Develop and implement programs supporting Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) objectives, workforce diversification, and inclusive practices.
- Provide strategic guidance to business unit managers, executive leaders including CEO , and stakeholders on operational and social impact programs.
- Coordinate events, sponsorships, and partnerships that strengthen community engagement and social outcomes.
- Analyse performance data.
- Contribute to bids and tenders.
- Key Achievements:
- Actioning workforce programs creating meaningful First Nations employment pathways.
- Improved operational efficiency and service delivery across multiple business units.
- Strengthened community and corporate partnerships through culturally aligned programs and RAP initiatives.
- Managed financial reporting and analysis for organisational budgets and forecasts.
Education
Leading Teams Management course -
AIM Australian Institute of Management WA
09-2026
Certificate II Government Working with Children -
02-2024
Cross Cultural Training -
Northern Territory Anti-Discrimination Commission
Certificate III Business -
TAFE SA
Skills
Executive leadership
- Strategic planning
- Governance and board reporting
- Organizational development
- Community engagement
- Stakeholder relations
- Government and funding engagement
- Workforce leadership
- Risk management and compliance
- Financial stewardship
- Operational excellence
- Change management
- Service improvement
- Policy development
- Partnership development
Community Leadership
- CAAPS, Director, Governance and strategic oversight supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander professional development.
- Darwin Buffaloes Football Club, Support cultural engagement as footballer and volunteer.
- Recognised community leader fostering social, cultural, and sporting initiatives for First Nations people.
Timeline
Interim Chief Executive Officer
CAAPS Aboriginal Corporation
07.2026 - Current
Commercial Operations Manager
Ironbark Services NT (ISNT)
05.2022 - 07.2026
Leading Teams Management course -
AIM Australian Institute of Management WA
Certificate II Government Working with Children -
Cross Cultural Training -
Northern Territory Anti-Discrimination Commission
Certificate III Business -
TAFE SA