The Hunter Valley Coal Chain Coordinator (HVCCC) is a unique and vital organisation that works independently of individual interests to optimise the end-to-end performance of the Hunter Valley Coal Chain, one of the most complex, productive and efficient coal supply chains in the world.
On behalf of its members (the Hunter Valley coal producers and service providers), HVCCC synchronises supply chain planning and execution across a vast network of interdependent assets, from mines to vessels, using a combination of world-class modelling, forecasting, and integrated planning systems. HVCCC is proud to have been named the state winner of the Business NSW Employer of Choice Award in 2023 and the Best Workplace Award in 2024 for exceptional employee engagement, wellbeing and progress.
With a collaborative team of 70 professionals, HVCCC is guided by a newly-approved Strategic Plan (2026-2030) that positions the business for its next phase of transformation, enhancing coal chain optimisation through advanced technologies, operational resilience and people-led change.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Board, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is accountable for delivering HVCCC’s purpose and strategic objectives.
This is a high‑judgement leadership role operating within a complex, multi‑stakeholder environment. The CEO must balance competing interests while maintaining independence, credibility and a whole‑of‑system perspective.
The CEO provides intellectual leadership, strategic direction and steady execution, while representing HVCCC with authority, professionalism and neutrality across industry, government and the broader community.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the development and execution of HVCCC’s Strategic Plan and annual budget
- Providing strategic and intellectual leadership to optimise end‑to‑end coal chain performance
- Overseeing HVCCC’s coordinating, planning, modelling and advisory functions
- Leading organisational capability across people, culture, systems and technology
- Building trusted relationships with Members, the Board, regulators and industry stakeholders
- Ensuring strong governance, compliance, risk management and transparent reporting
- Sponsoring innovation, continuous improvement and disciplined transformation
You are a calm, credible and values‑led executive leader with the maturity, independence and judgement to operate effectively in a complex, multi‑user system.
This role will suit a leader who is comfortable influencing outcomes without reliance on positional authority, and who builds trust through evidence, logic, relationships and integrity.
You will bring:
- Senior executive leadership experience in complex, multi‑stakeholder environments
- The ability to operate calmly and decisively under sustained pressure
- Strong strategic thinking with a demonstrated ability to prioritise whole‑of‑chain outcomes
- Proven capability to lead organisational culture, values, people performance and risk management
- Personal credibility and gravitas when engaging with senior industry leaders
- A track record of influencing, negotiating and constructively challenging diverse stakeholders
- High emotional intelligence, independence of thought and reliance in ambiguous settings
- Sound governance experience, including regular engagement with Boards & committees
A relevant tertiary qualification is required.
Why This Role
This is a rare opportunity to lead a truly one-of-a-kind organisation with genuine influence across Australia’s critical export infrastructure. The role offers exceptional strategic depth, complexity and impact, alongside the lifestyle advantages of being based in Newcastle and the Hunter region.
This appointment is being managed as a confidential executive search. All enquiries and applications will be treated with discretion.
Interested executives are encouraged submit an application or contact the appointed recruitment partners Jessica O’Neill or Adrian Button on (02) 4044 0400.
Applications close : Thursday 14th of May 2026.
