Recruitment & Executive Search

Abstract Gembridge branding geometric background with large black and white shapes and orange and maroon accents.
Abstract Gembridge branding geometric background with large black and white shapes and orange and maroon accents.

We specialise in Australia’s for-purpose sector recruiting for diverse roles where people, purpose and impact come together.

To every client we bring:

Process

A proven approach: through briefing, transparent communication, tailored strategies, and rigorous assessment.

Clarity

We take the time to understand your needs and define a clear path forward.

Trust

Our work is built on integrity, honesty and genuine care, creating relationships that last well beyond a single placement.

Clarity

We take the time to understand your needs and define a clear path forward.

Networks

Decades of genuine connections across the NFP sector enable us to leverage connections and insights to deliver outcomes.

Knowledge

Deep sector understanding and current trends from ongoing learning and lived experience.

Time

We invest what's needed for a thoughtful, tailored process that leads to success.

Clients we partner with

Woman recruitment consultant presenting in a board room to Not for profit clients.

Why partner with us?

We understand your culture

Having lived the work, we recognise what matters beyond the position description - the unspoken expectations, the passion that drives the NFP sector, the challenges that keep you up at night.

We focus on the right fit, not the fastest. Our recruitment methodology means we're your trusted partner, investing in a deep understanding of your organisation rather than racing other agencies to fill a seat.

We prioritise quality. Every shortlist is carefully considered and aligned with capability, culture, and values. Our approach is human-centred and transparent, with exceptional candidate care that strengthens your employer brand. Beyond filling a role, we provide advice, clarity and partnership. We help organisations build strong, future-ready teams, and this is what our clients consistently tell us they appreciate most.

We care about outcomes. Success isn't just placement. It's watching people thrive, grow, earn promotions, and make a real impact. That's what keeps us going.

Our recruitment focus

From CEO and Executive to specialist roles in fundraising, philanthropy and advancement, we connect mission-driven organisations with exceptional people.

Roles

  • CEO and C-Suite

  • Board Chair & Non-Exec. Directors

  • Senior management, Head of / Director

  • Manager / Team Leader & Specialist

For-purpose organisations

  • Human services & welfare

  • Arts & culture

  • Sport & recreation

  • Health & medical research

  • Advocacy

  • Social enterprise

  • Faith-based services

  • Independent schools and educational institutions

  • Environment & sustainability

  • Charities

  • Membership groups & peak bodies

  • B Corps

Focus areas

  • Corporate services

  • Marketing & communications

  • Fundraising, philanthropy & advancement

  • Advocacy, research & policy

  • Social enterprise

  • Government relations

  • Impact measurement & reporting

  • Grants administration, management & operations

  • Two women jogging outdoors wearing white t-shirts with 'Peter Mac' logo, one with a smartwatch and armband, in a park with trees and a metal barrier.

    "Michelle goes that extra mile to find the best shortlist of candidates. Michelle delivers results, has integrity and keeps me informed across the entire recruitment assignment. Her extensive knowledge and networks across the not-for-profit sector clearly play a role in her success."

    Carl Young
    Former Philanthropy & Fundraising Manager
    Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation

  • "Dealing with Michelle and the Gembridge team recently was a great experience. Right from the start of the process, all communications and the next steps felt natural and smooth. It was a great tone to take and enabled me to explore what became my next role, in a trusting and authentic environment."

    Jo Gleeson
    Director, Development
    Trust For Nature

  • A woman in a colorful patterned dress and headscarf smiling and interacting with green plants in a field.

    "Michelle presented an excellent shortlist of high-calibre candidates who met the brief, leading to a successful appointment. Michelle provided excellent service and delivered the desired outcome. I highly recommend."

    Andrew Buchannan
    Director of Fundraising & Resource Growth
    Oxfam Australia

  • Testimonial from Caulfield Grammar School.

    "Michelle took the time to truly understand our needs, team culture, and the specific requirements of the role - not just on paper, but in practice. The quality of candidates she presented was consistently high, which saved us valuable time and ensured a strong fit both technically and culturally. Michelle's communication was proactive, and solutions-focused. She represented our organisation professionally in the market. I would highly recommend Gembridge to any company looking for a recruiter who acted as a true strategic partner."

    Sue Sonego
    Executive Director, Community Engagement
    Caulfield Grammar School

Senior Recruitment consultant sitting with a philanthropy candidate

Experienced consultants, working in true partnership

We work as an extension of your organisation, forming a collaborative partnership that brings both expertise and deep understanding of your needs. Our tailored approach ensures alignment with your culture, values and strategic goals, delivering a dedicated and highly personalised search process.

Through this partnership, we work closely alongside you at every stage, with a strong focus on achieving exceptional outcomes and identifying the right people for today and for the future.

Every search is led by a senior consultant as your dedicated point of contact, supported by a team of specialists in research, sourcing and candidate engagement. Together, we provide continuity, insight and rigour throughout the process, proactively identifying top talent, building strong pipelines and fostering meaningful conversations.

Our approach is defined by commitment, confidentiality and care, ensuring a seamless experience and successful outcomes for your organisation.

Genuine happy woman sitting with interview notes in front of her showing she cares about her clients and candidates

We genuinely care

Clients and candidates consistently tell us we're different: less transactional, more invested in finding the right match for the long term.

We care about people, and are part of this sector too. We find it incredibly rewarding to place candidates and watch them thrive, growing in their new roles, earning promotions, learning new skills and making a real difference.

Success isn't just about filling a position; it's about seeing people and organisations flourish.

Rocks meeting the ocean in Australia.
Rocks meeting the ocean in Australia.

Ready to partner with Gembridge?

Get in touch with us to discuss your recruitment goals.