Associate Director, Future Student Experience Enhancement

University of Adelaide; Adelaide; Hybrid; AUD 148,000 - 162,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Adelaide, based at the International and External Engagement Portfolio at the City East campus, is seeking an Associate Director to lead Future Student Experience Enhancement, driving a seamless student journey from enquiry to enrolment.

You will shape continuous improvement frameworks, deliver strategic projects, and build capability across the Future Students function, with a focus on student-centred outcomes and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in developing, implementing and leading continuous improvement initiatives in a large, complex organisation.
• Demonstrated leadership in building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of innovation.
• Demonstrated expertise applying Lean/Six Sigma to enhance operational efficiency.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with evidence-based decision making.
• Experience in or with the higher education sector is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for continuous improvement across the Future Students portfolio.
• Drive service excellence, operational effectiveness and a seamless student-centred experience from enquiry to enrolment.
• Lead development and implementation of continuous improvement frameworks and strategic projects.
• Build capability and drive measurable outcomes through capability-building initiatives.

Skills

Continuous improvement

Lean Six Sigma

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Data-driven decision making

Higher education experience

Job description

• Based in the International and External Engagement Portfolio at the City East campus
• Full-time, continuing position
• Salary Range: $147,684 - $162,201 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)
• Develop and execute strategies that promote a student-centric approach and deliver a consistent, seamless experience for future students

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Workthat matters

The Associate Director, Future Student Experience Enhancement provides strategic leadership for continuous improvement across the Future Students portfolio, driving service excellence, operational effectiveness, and a seamless student-centred experience from enquiry to enrolment. The role leads the development and implementation of continuous improvement frameworks, strategic projects, and capability-building initiatives that enhance student outcomes, service quality, and organisational performance.

Curious to learn more? Explore the full role description to discover more about this opportunity.

The team

The Future Students function is dedicated to driving future student engagement, student recruitment, conversion and admissions efforts at Adelaide University.

Visit the AU website to learn moreaboutthe International and External Engagement Portfolio and Future Students Function, please visit: International and External Engagement | Adelaide University.

Our people

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:

• Extensive experience in developing, implementing and leading continuous improvement or quality assurance initiatives in a large, complex organisation
• Demonstrated leadership in building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of innovation
• Demonstrated expertise in applying a range of methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to enhance operational efficiency
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated ability to use data and evidence to guide strategy and decision-making
• Proven success in leading strategic initiatives and influencing institutional change that delivers measurable outcomes
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with a capacity to build trust and influence at senior levels
• Experience working in or with the higher education sector is desirable

Ourcommitment to inclusionand diversity

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity iscelebratedand everyone feels respected and valued.Adelaide University, Tirkangkaku isanequal opportunityemployer,committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. Westrongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of allages,genders,cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, andgender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible workingarrangementsand providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Submit your application by11:30pmSunday 11 October 2026

For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 493533):

Alexandra KoszegiTeam Lead, Talent Acquisition
[phone] | [e-mail]

Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment.