Vice-Chancellor

University of Divinity; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 800,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Divinity in Melbourne invites applications for the strategic role of Vice-Chancellor. The successful candidate will lead academic and administrative functions, shape the university's vision, and maintain its high standards in teaching and research across Australia.

Based in Melbourne, the Vice-Chancellor will work with partner colleges and stakeholders to advance growth, funding, and collaborations while upholding the institution's aims, values, and mission for the next phase

Job description

The University of Divinity delivers education and research in divinity and associated disciplines. For over one hundred years, it has prepared its graduates for ministry, leadership, professional practice and community service. Operating across Australia, it partners with over thirty churches, religious orders and associated organisations in a unique ecumenical enterprise. It is regularly ranked by students as one of the top University in Australia for student satisfaction and learner engagement, reflecting the high quality of its curriculum and staff. Following the announcement that the University's Vice-Chancellor would step down in October 2026, the University Council is seeking an outstanding appointee to lead and guide the University.

The Vice-Chancellor is responsible for realising the mission of the University, building on its world-class reputation for research and teaching. The University is seeking an outstanding academic leader with a strategic outlook and strong financial acumen. The successful appointee will work constructively with the University's partner colleges and stakeholders, including churches, religious orders and associated organisations, to build the kind of rapport needed to underpin innovative approaches in program and service delivery. The Vice-Chancellor will have a pivotal role in onboarding new college partners, optimising growth opportunities, enhancing industry funding, and achieving efficiencies through creative approaches in partnering and outsourcing. A gifted leader and communicator, the Vice-Chancellor will foster collaboration and provide clear direction as the University meets the challenges of its changing context.

Based in Melbourne, the Vice-Chancellor will oversee a small national administrative team, ensuring that the institution maintains its learning and teaching and research standards while positioning itself for the future. Candidates will have a proven track record of academic leadership, possess strong communication and influencing skills, and be committed to upholding the aims, objectives and values of the institution. While their academic discipline background may be broad, what is essential is that they can represent the University at the highest level both internally and externally, taking the institution to the next phase of its development.