Head of Design and Planning – Macquarie University

Position: Head of Design and Planning

Compensation: Circa $230,000 per annum

Employment type: Full‑time, continuing appointment

Location: Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Job Overview

Macquarie University's Property Division seeks an accomplished architect to lead the Planning Team and serve as Design Manager for all campus projects. In the pivotal role of Head of Design and Planning you will provide strategic oversight of architectural design, planning and scoping services across the entire minor and capital works pipeline, ensuring design and planning outcomes are integrated to advance the university’s property and campus development objectives. With influence over an average of 60 projects per year and a $450M university project portfolio, this role offers the chance to leave a lasting mark on one of Australia’s most dynamic university campuses.

Key Responsibilities

- Oversee the pipeline of the capital management program for all design‑related capital works, aligned with university objectives.
- Deliver architectural and interior design services across all university assets, reflecting best practice.
- Critically evaluate and advise on project design and specifications against agreed scope, business needs and statutory compliance requirements.
- Analyse and recommend changes to the physical campus and the allocation and use of space to inform space management planning.
- Develop, implement and embed governance, prioritisation and performance frameworks across the planning teams.




- Oversee project design, scope and deliverables with stakeholders and external providers, and manage the selection and procurement of design consultants, suppliers and contractors.
- Prepare strategic reporting, briefs and business cases in partnership with the Director, Strategy and Planning.
- Build and guide an engaged, high‑performing team and cultivate a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement across the Space and Planning teams.

Qualifications

- Degree qualification in Architecture and a minimum of 15years of experience delivering complex architectural and high‑profile design projects within commercial or comparable environments.
- Proven experience guiding, developing and managing high‑performing professional teams to achieve strategic and operational objectives.
- Well‑developed negotiation, influencing and stakeholder engagement skills, with experience across all aspects of project design, scope, delivery and outcomes within a complex matrix structure.
- Demonstrated ability to provide expert design advice and develop strategies that support project feasibility, planning, design excellence and industry best practice.




- Proven ability to manage risk, resolve complex issues and guide multidisciplinary teams to successful outcomes, with well‑developed analytical and conceptual problem‑solving skills.
- Advanced expertise in CAD and REVIT software, along with proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel and PowerPoint.
- Demonstrated knowledge of Australian Building Codes, standards and statutory compliance requirements relevant to building design and construction.
- Excellent written, verbal and presentation communication skills.

Benefits

- Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
- 17% superannuation
- Subsidised onsite parking options
- Extensive training and professional development programmes
- Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
- Onsite vacation care during school holidays
- Discounted health insurance
- Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre
- Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support
- Convenient onsite GP, imaging and physiotherapy clinics

EEO Statement

A Place Where You Belong – At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community.

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📌 Head of Architectural Design and Planning (City of Sydney)
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