Role type: Part time (0.4 FTE), Fixed term for 3 years
Faculty: Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences
Department: Melbourne School of Health Sciences
Salary: Level D / Level E plus 17% super
Provide executive academic leadership / shape strategic direction and portfolio priorities across health sciences disciplines / foster interprofessional research, education, and health sector partnerships

Your next career opportunity In this high-profile executive leadership role, you will work directly with the Head of School to guide the strategic direction, growth, and academic governance of the Melbourne School of Health Sciences. You will actively deputise for the Head of School and lead a specific portfolio - such as Education and Student Experience, Research, Globalisation, Engagement and Communities, Career Pathways and Staff Experience, or Indigenous Development - while fostering collaborative partnerships across all five school departments (Optometry & Vision Sciences, Nursing, Social Work, Physiotherapy, and Audiology & Speech Pathology).

What you will deliver:

- Deputise for the Head of School, representing the School internally and externally with delegated executive authority.
- Provide strategic leadership across research, teaching, and community engagement to build capability across the School, Faculty, and University.
- Lead strategic portfolio initiatives and oversee academic planning, resource/space management, and compliance across School sites.
- Partner with the Head of School and School Manager on overall people leadership, performance management, talent development, and culture.
- Drive cross-disciplinary research, commercialisation, and external partnerships with industry, healthcare providers, alumni, and government.
- Oversee educational quality, course renewal, and student experience in collaboration with Teaching & Learning Directors.

You may be a great fit if you:

- Hold a PhD or equivalent higher degree in a discipline related to health sciences.
- Are recognised as an eminent authority nationally and internationally with a sustained record of securing competitive research grants.
- Bring a proven track record of strategic academic leadership and governance in complex, changing environments.
- Exhibit strong familiarity with the strategic priorities of the University of Melbourne and the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences.
- Possess exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with academic peers, clinicians, policy makers, and industry.




- Demonstrate a commitment to ethical leadership, diversity, inclusion, and a values-based culture.

(Note: Position requires working in office at the Parkville campus at least one day per week).

What we offer you!

- Build future financial security with 17% superannuation
- Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
- Career development opportunities, including access to a range of tailored programs and learning platforms
- Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work‑life balance and well‑being
- Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services
- Health and well‑being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

For more information check out our benefits page!

Your new team

You will join the executive leadership team of the Melbourne School of Health Sciences - an inter‑professional learning community comprising the departments of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Nursing, Social Work, Physiotherapy, and Audiology and Speech Pathology. Working alongside approximately 170 academic staff, 21 professional staff, and over 200 sessional colleagues, you will help lead a school dedicated to transforming health outcomes through cutting‑edge implementation science, clinical trials, and interdisciplinary education.

Be Yourself

The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child‑safe organisation. The diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Discover more about Diversity and Inclusion at UniMelb.

We’re committed to a barrier‑free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing adjustments throughout. We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities. Learn more about how we support an accessible recruitment process.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians.



Visit our Indigenous staff page to learn more about our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with our Indigenous Employment & Development team at [email protected].

Applications close: Sunday 1 November 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.

Position Description:

PD - Deputy HOS, MSHS Explore leadership opportunities to shape the future and growth of the University of Melbourne - Executive Opportunities Welcome to the University of Melbourne – where our vision for positive societal change creates impact. Join our community of world‑class thinkers, where innovation thrives, and your ideas shape the future. At the University of Melbourne, your potential is our priority. Elevate your career, make a real difference, and be part of a diverse community that values your unique contribution. Your journey to professional and personal growth starts here. Discover more at - https://about.unimelb.edu.au/ At the heart of our mission is a commitment to enriching society through education and research. Through our strategy "Advancing Melbourne," we're not just shaping our own future; we're shaping the future of the state, the nation, and our global community. Together, we propel Australia forward, positioning it as an ambitious, forward‑thinking leader on the world stage. Our staff play a key role in elevating Australia's reputation and influence globally. Your contributions are the driving force behind our ambition to be a leading force for positive change. Join us, and let's advance Melbourne – and the world – together. Discover more Our university has committed to a strategic vision which aims to create a thriving, fair and diverse university community, working together respectfully to make a difference to each other and in the world. Join us on our journey to build a future where everyone in our community can feel a strong sense of belonging, and diverse perspectives fuel success. Discover more Want to know more about us, our processes, or future opportunities? We would love to connect with you! Get in touch with our friendly Talent Acquisition team at [email protected]

Want to know more? For queries related to this specific position, contact Professor Bruce Thompson by emailing [email protected] or calling +61 9344 2961. For questions related to our recruitment process email [email protected]. For recruitment adjustments contact [email protected] (subject: 'Recruitment Adjustments').

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📌 Deputy Head, Melbourne School Of Health Sciences (Parkville)
🏢 UOM University of Melbourne
📍 Parkville