Executive Director, Research Services & Transformation

University of Sydney; Australia; On-site; AUD 250,000 - 380,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

17% superannuation

Relocation allowance

Salary packaging options

Fitness passport

Job summary

The University of Sydney is seeking a accomplished senior leader to join the Research Portfolio as Executive Director, Research Services, responsible for leading and transforming researcher‑facing services across the University.

Reporting to the Deputy Vice‑Chancellor (Research), you will drive end‑to‑end service models, engage with academic and professional leaders, manage significant budgets and deliver measurable improvements in researcher experience.

Qualifications

• Significant senior executive leadership experience.
• Deep knowledge of the research lifecycle and research services.
• Proven track record leading complex service transformation and organisational change.
• Ability to translate strategy into effective operational delivery.
• Strong stakeholder leadership and influencing skills.
• High judgement with risk, governance, and compliance experience.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and executive advisory capability.
• Resilience and ability to manage high‑risk, sensitive issues under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Lead and transform five areas: Research Pipeline and Pre‑Award; Post‑Award Research Services; Clinical Trials; Research Ethics, Governance and Assurance; and Research Services and Improvement.
• Drive end‑to‑end service models and integrated delivery to reduce administrative burden for researchers.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to enable seamless processes and systems.
• Provide trusted advice to the Deputy Vice‑Chancellor (Research) and senior leadership.
• Champion continuous improvement, innovation and service excellence across the Research Portfolio.

Skills

Senior leadership

Stakeholder management

Strategic planning

Change management

Risk & governance

Financial acumen

Communication & advisory

Job description

The University of Sydney is seeking a accomplished senior leader to join the Research Portfolio as Executive Director, Research Services, responsible for leading and transforming researcher‑facing services across the University.

Reporting to the Deputy Vice‑Chancellor (Research), you will drive end‑to‑end service models, engage with academic and professional leaders, manage significant budgets and deliver measurable improvements in researcher experience.