Influence at the highest level – partner directly with senior leaders and shape education strategy

High impact, visible work – drive initiatives that improve student outcomes at scale

Broad, career defining exposure – work across strategy, policy, operations and innovation

Full-time Fixed Term until December 2027 Drive Impact In Education Innovation And Student Experience The University of Newcastle is a global leader committed to equity, excellence and creating a better future for our regions and the world. We are seeking a high-performing strategic leader to join the College of Human and Social Futures as Senior Manager, Education & Innovation. This is a key leadership opportunity providing high-level strategic advice, executive support and operational oversight across the College’s Education and Innovation portfolio.

What does this role offer you? Direct access to senior leadership – act as a trusted advisor to the Pro Vice-Chancellor and key decision-makers

Real influence – shape education strategy, priorities and innovation at scale

High-impact work – deliver initiatives that directly improve student outcomes and experience

Breadth and visibility – work across strategy, policy, operations and innovation in a highly visible portfolio A collaborative, purpose-led culture What You’ll Be Responsible For Reporting to the College General Manager, you will play a central role in driving the College’s education and innovation agenda.

You will: Provide trusted strategic advice to the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Head of College and senior leaders on education strategy, policy and emerging issues

Lead the delivery of high-quality teaching and learning proposals, reports, submissions and associated portfolio documentation

Drive the development and implementation of education strategy and performance planning and manage a multidisciplinary Education and Innovation Team across strategy, operations and professional experience functions

Oversee complex projects and strategic initiatives that enhance educational outcomes and innovation

Build strong relationships and partnerships across the University with key academic and senior stakeholders

Navigate complex and sensitive issues, ensuring effective,



low-risk outcomes What You Bring You’re a commercially minded, strategic operator who thrives in fast-paced, complex environments and enjoys working close to decision-makers.

You Bring

Proven experience advising senior leaders and shaping strategic direction

Strong capability in strategy, transformation or policy environments The ability to cut through complexity and deliver transparent, actionable outcomes

Exceptional communication skills, including executive-level writing A track record of leading teams, programs or organisational change

Confidence building relationships and influencing at senior levels You don’t need to come from a university environment. We’re looking for a leader with capability, perspective and impact.

We Welcome Candidates From

Public sector strategy and policy environments

Education, training or skills-focused organisations (including VET/TAFE)

Health, large-scale service delivery or complex operational environments

Consulting, advisory or transformation roles

Corporate learning, edtech or innovation environments

Research, think tanks or adjacent education ecosystems Terms & Conditions This is a full-time fixed-term role until December 2026.

Remuneration

Up to $170,522 package including superannuation (per annum) Your next steps If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where copies of the Position Descriptions can be accessed. Please download the relevant copy before commencing your application.

Your Application Must Include

Your resume.

A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity.

A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed in the attached Position Description Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document. This document should not exceed 3 pages.



We value diversity and strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are equitable, inclusive, and barrier-free.

If you require an alternative pathway to view the Position Description or to submit an application, please reach out to [email protected] We also seek to provide a fair chance to all applicants by providing reasonable adjustments where required during the assessment and interview phases of the recruitment process. Our assessment process Typically Candidates That Progress Beyond The Shortlist Stage Can Expect To Undertake The Following (minimum) Assessment Activities As Part Of The Recruitment Process Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)

Referee checks

Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive. As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University. Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance – it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.

Closing date Sunday 23rd August 2026 at 11:59pm AEST We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply. The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Birpai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations.

We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.

📌 Senior Manager Education and Innovation (Newcastle)
🏢 University of Newcastle
📍 Newcastle