Head of Department

Careers In Demand; City of Melbourne; Hybrid; AUD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading TAFE provider in Melbourne is seeking a Head of Department within their Faculty of Creative, Business & Technology. This senior leadership role involves shaping innovative programs, leading high-performing teams, and driving educational excellence. The ideal candidate will possess strong VET sector knowledge and demonstrable results in education leadership. Join a team focused on impact and community, offering flexible work arrangements and generous benefits.

Benefits

Flexible work arrangements

Leadership pathways

Professional development

Generous leave entitlements

Qualifications

• Senior education leadership experience with strong VET sector knowledge.
• A proven track record of delivering results, ensuring compliance, and driving innovation in teaching and learning.

Responsibilities

• Lead people and culture – creating an environment where educators thrive and students excel.
• Shape programs that anticipate workforce needs and deliver meaningful outcomes.
• Drive growth and strategy across a diverse and dynamic faculty.

Skills

Strategic vision

People-first leadership

Exceptional communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Tertiary qualifications in IT, Cyber or Business

Job description

Our client, a prominent TAFE provider, is seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to take on the role of Head of Department within their Faculty of Creative, Business & Technology.

This is a senior leadership position where you’ll set the direction for a growing department, drive educational excellence, and empower high-performing teams. You’ll ensure programs are innovative, industry-relevant, and designed to set students up for success.

In this pivotal role, you will:

• Lead people and culture – creating an environment where educators thrive and students excel.
• Shape programs that anticipate workforce needs and deliver meaningful outcomes.
• Drive growth and strategy across a diverse and dynamic faculty.
• Strengthen partnerships with industry and government to keep learning future-focused.

About you

Our client is seeking a leader who brings both strategic vision and people-first leadership. You must have:

• Senior education leadership experience with strong VET sector knowledge.
• Tertiary qualifications and/or professional experience in IT, Cyber or Business.
• Exceptional communication and listening skills
• A proven track record of delivering results, ensuring compliance, and driving innovation in teaching and learning.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills across government, industry, and community.
• A collaborative, trustworthy and inspiring leadership style.
• Values that align with the organisation — curiosity, trust and compassion.

Why join our client?

As a leading education provider, they offer more than a career move — they offer growth, impact and community. Our client is a leader in vocational and higher education, recognised for their commitment to excellence, equity, and inclusion. Their programs change lives, strengthen communities, and prepare students for the future of work.

Staff benefits include:

• Flexible work arrangements and hybrid options.
• Leadership pathways, professional development, and recognition programs.
• Generous leave entitlements, including up to 14 weeks paid parental leave and 20 days paid family violence leave.
• Free health checks, flu vaccinations, skin checks, and health insurance discounts.
• Financial benefits such as salary packaging and novated leasing.
• Unique perks and discounts, including reduced fees on short courses for staff and family.

Apply now

If you’re ready to lead with purpose, partner with industry, and shape the future, we’d love to hear from you.