UTS Business School, in partnership with Southern Cross University is inviting applications to appoint an Institute Director- a newly created role to lead the establishment of the new Adaptation Labs Australia.

About the role The Director leads the initial establishment of the Institute, forms the key relationships on which it depends, and sustains high-impact engagement, research and creative practice across both university partners.

A central purpose of the role is to act as the connector and bridge between the two founding universities, aligning their people, capabilities and ambitions behind a shared agenda. Working with a high level of autonomy, the Director develops the Institute’s strategy, leads situational analysis, and drives external engagement by building partnerships with industry, donors, government and other relevant stakeholders. The Director is the outward-facing representative of the Institute and represents both universities in external engagement.

As a significant leadership position, the role actively drives the direction, culture, management and sustainability of the Institute and is responsible for delivering its vision and strategic priorities, consistent with the strategies and directions of both founding universities.

To be successful in the role, you will have;

- A PhD with subsequent relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education or training
- Demonstrated understanding of the resilience and adaptation context
- Experience in the successful development and implementation of strategies and programs
- Solid leadership experience, working in a fast-paced and complex environment involving diverse stakeholders
- Advanced knowledge of partnerships and business development
- Excellent strategic planning and research skills,



with a capacity for systematic thinking and the ability to analyse information and situations, identify issues, assess impacts, and propose options and recommendations based on sound rationale

For the full list of selection criteria and role responsibilities, please download the Position Description (available on the UTS job portal). Remuneration & Benefits

Base Salary: $185,281.60 p.a. (Level E) (pro-rata amount for 0.8FTE)

This role attracts 17% superannuation (pension) in addition to the base salary.

This position is part time (0.8FTE, 4 days per week) and an appointment will be made for 3 years.

How to apply To apply, please submit;

1. A copy of your CV
2. A cover letter that outlines your motivation for applying, as well as addressing the selection criteria found on Page 8 and 9 of the Position Statement

Only those applications submitted via the UTS online recruitment system will be accepted. Please ensure that the file name for each document submitted includes reference IRC342645 and your name.

Specific enquiries or issues with your application may be directed to the UTS Recruitment Team at [email protected].

Closing Date: Wednesday 5 August 2026 at 11.59 pm (AEST)

Applicants must have unlimited Australian work rights.

UTS prioritises safety, respect, and inclusion for every member of our community. In support of this, and in line with our statutory obligations under the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2026, all prospective employees must declare any past investigations relating to gender-based violence. Employment at UTS is contingent upon completion of this declaration, and, where necessary, assessment of any identified risk factors.

We appreciate your role in upholding the standards and behaviour expected of our community.

📌 Institute Director, Adaptation Labs Australia (Sydney)
🏢 University Of Technology Sydney
📍 Sydney