Chief Operating Officer

University of Newcastle; Newcastle; On-site; AUD 240,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Newcastle is seeking its next Chief Operating Officer to oversee resources, operations and infrastructure across campuses, enabling the delivery of its Looking Ahead 2030 priorities and an outstanding student experience.

Reporting to the Vice-Chancellor, the COO will lead a large professional team, champion innovation and collaboration, and build strong relationships with Council and executive leaders while advancing equity, sustainability and community service.

Job description

The University of Newcastle stands as a global top 1% University, committed to delivering an exceptional student experience, preparing graduates for life, and with a shared purpose to better our regions and the world. Our Looking Ahead 2030 Strategic Plan captures the spirit of looking to the future to imagine and then realise possibilities, enabled by the values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability.

Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor, and a member of the senior executive group, the University of Newcastle is seeking their next Chief Operating Officer (COO). The role is responsible for overseeing the resources, operations and infrastructure of the University and its campuses and for creating an operating environment to enable the achievement of the University’s strategic priorities for reimagining campuses, inspiring people, providing an outstanding student experience and serving the community.

The Resources Division (COO portfolio) includes Strategy, Planning and Performance, Financial Services, Infrastructure and Facilities Services, Human Resource Services, Digital Technology Services, Risk Services and the University Library.

The COO has a broad remit, and it will be essential to mobilise a large professional team to deliver upon the University’s Strategic Plan (Looking Ahead 2030). The COO will also represent the University on relevant external boards and committees and play an advocacy role for the University’s operational activities and initiatives within the broader community.

We are seeking an experienced senior executive with gravitas and an inclusive leadership style, relevant qualifications, and extensive experience in a similar leadership role within a large, complex, values-led organisation.

Strong resource management and experience leading a similar portfolio should be complemented by excellent communication skills, sound judgement and an ability to build strong relationships with the University Council, Executive Leadership Team, senior management and stakeholders across and beyond the University. The COO will embed a culture of innovation, collaboration, service and improved ways of working which optimises the growth, achievements and sustainability of the University.

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.