Head of School, Western Australian School of Mines (WASM)

Curtin University

Curtin University is seeking an outstanding and visionary academic leader to join the Faculty of Science and Engineering as Head of School, Western Australian School of Mines (WASM) .

WASM is internationally recognised as a leader in mining, metallurgical, chemical and energy engineering education and research. Operating across Perth and Kalgoorlie, the School brings together deep expertise across the resources value chain and is ranked among the world's leading institutions for Mineral and Mining Engineering.

As one of Australia's leading global universities, Curtin is recognised for delivering world-class research, innovative learning and strong industry engagement. The Faculty of Science and Engineering is home to internationally recognised teaching and research strengths that advance scientific discovery, engineering innovation and industry impact.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Science and Engineering, the Head of School is responsible for providing strategic, academic and operational leadership to WASM.

The role will lead the School's continued growth and success across education, research, industry engagement and organisational performance. Working closely with colleagues across Curtin and with industry partners, government and professional bodies, the Head of School will play a key role in shaping the future of resources, energy and engineering education and research.

This position offers the opportunity to:

- Lead one of the world's most recognised mining and resources schools.
- Shape the strategic direction and future growth of WASM.
- Drive excellence in teaching, research, innovation and industry engagement.




- Strengthen domestic and international partnerships across industry, government and academia.
- Lead multidisciplinary teams delivering impact across resources, energy and engineering.
- Influence University-wide strategy and contribute to senior leadership and governance activities.

About You You are an accomplished academic leader with an international reputation in a discipline relevant to WASM and a passion for building high-performing teams and environments.

You bring significant experience operating within complex stakeholder environments and a proven ability to lead organisational performance, strategic change and academic excellence while strengthening relationships across industry and government.

The successful candidate will possess:

- A doctoral qualification and internationally recognised record of academic achievement.
- A distinguished academic profile with expertise aligned to the School's disciplines.
- Significant leadership and governance experience within a complex organisation.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic and operational priorities.
- Exceptional people leadership and stakeholder engagement capability.
- Solid financial and resource management skills.
- Experience leading organisational change and fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.




- Deep industry engagement and the ability to strengthen partnerships that enhance education, research and impact.
- A demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and First Nations engagement.

Leadership at Curtin The Head of School will exemplify Curtin's values of integrity, respect, courage, excellence and impact while fostering an inclusive, collaborative and high-performing culture. The role requires a strategic leader who can inspire others, build capability, navigate complexity and deliver meaningful outcomes for students, staff, industry and community. Why Curtin?

Curtin is a globally connected and innovative university committed to making tomorrow better through education, research and engagement. The University offers a unique opportunity to work with world-leading researchers, educators and industry partners while contributing to nationally and internationally significant outcomes. WASM's reputation, heritage and deep industry connections make this one of the most significant academic leadership opportunities in the resources and energy sector.

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a globally recognised School and help shape the future of resources, energy and engineering education, research and industry impact.

How to Apply

Applications should include a current curriculum vitae and a cover letter detailing your interest in the role and demonstrating how your experience aligns with the leadership capabilities, responsibilities and strategic requirements of the position. Applications should be submitted via email to [email protected].

Closing date: 23 October 2026, 11:59pm

Contact: Grace Tan & Jonathan Lai, Korn Ferry ( [email protected] )

SE: 510810150

📌 Head of School, Western Australian School of Mines (WASM) (Perth)
🏢 Korn Ferry
📍 Perth