EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
INDEPENDENT BOARD MEMBER 

Introduction
The PMSA Board is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified individuals to serve as a volunteer Board Member. 

The PMSA owns four of Queensland’s well-known independent schools: Brisbane Boys’ College, Clayfield College, Somerville House, Sunshine Coast Grammar School and three early learning centres. The PMSA was established in 1918 by the then Methodist Church in Queensland (now the Uniting Church in Australia, Queensland Synod) and the Presbyterian Church of Queensland. The PMSA Board has overall responsibility and ultimate decision-making authority for the work of the PMSA schools and early learning centres. 

This is a unique opportunity to contribute your expertise to the PMSA and influence its long-term development and mission. As a Christian faith-based organisation, the PMSA seeks Board Members who will uphold, support and respect the primary place of Christian faith and values within the PMSA and its schools. 

Who We’re Looking For
The Board is seeking expressions of interest from candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

  • Finance, accounting and audit

  • Enterprise risk management, assurance and compliance

  • Child safeguarding

  • Executive and strategic HR skills

  • Governance experience

  • Board appointments, executive remuneration and succession planning

  • Property, assets and philanthropy

  • Independent Schools & Education 

Ideal candidates will demonstrate:

  • Strong governance and strategic advisory capability, preferably in a board or committee context

  • Senior leadership or executive experience

  • A collaborative and relationship-centred approach

  • A commitment to the mission and community of the PMSA 

Board Member Appointments

  • Each person appointed as a Board Member by the Board must be one of the following:

  • A member of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland; or

  • A member of the Uniting Church in Australia; or

  • An active member of another Christian Church who has agreed in writing to uphold the education policies of both the Presbyterian and Uniting Churches. 

Time Commitment

This voluntary role includes:

  • Completion of mandatory online training

  • Attendance at a minimum of six meetings per year plus the AGM, commence late afternoon at approximately 4pm

  • Pre-reading and meeting preparation

  • One Board strategy session per year

  • Annual PMSA Leadership Conference, and

  • Attendance at selected school and PMSA events. 

PMSA Statement of Commitment to Child Safety and Wellbeing
Protecting and advocating for the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people in our care is at the heart of everything we do. Every child and young person deserves to be and feel safe, respected and supported — everywhere, every day. 

Successful applicants must:

  • Comply with the PMSA Child Protection Policy and Procedures

  • Hold a current Volunteer Working with Children Check

  • Undergo criminal history and director checks

How to Apply
To express your interest, please submit your resume accompanied by a cover letter outlining: 

  1. Why you are interested in volunteering in education and working with children

  2. How you believe you can support the PMSA Board, the PMSA’s Christian mission, and your alignment with our Christian Faith

  3. A Statement of Faith and where applicable a commitment to uphold the education policies of both the Presbyterian and Uniting Churches; and

  4. Your relevant governance, leadership, or technical expertise.

Shortlisted candidates will meet with:

  • Representatives of the Board

  • PMSA Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director – People 

Prospective candidates will be required to nominate two referees who can attest to their skills, experience and character. 

Applications are to be submitted in writing to vacancies@pmsa-schools.edu.au 
Applications close: 18th September 2026 

Further Information
For further information and a candidate pack, please contact Bianca de Villiers on 073 371 0709.