Executive Officer for the Chancellor and the Secretary to Senate bei Usyd

• Full time opportunity, fixed term until 31 December 2026

• Pivotal role supporting the Chancellor and Chief Governance Officer (CGO), while leading strategic initiatives that enhance the university’s impact and reputation

• Base Salary $146,197 – 154,260 + 17% superannuation 

About the opportunity

We’re seeking a dynamic and strategic Executive Officer to work closely with the University’s most senior leaders, influencing strategic outcomes, and contributing to the institution’s public profile and long-term success. You’ll be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking team committed to excellence and innovation. This rare opportunity will support two critical areas of the University:

Executive Support (0.6 FTE)

Provide high-level professional support to the Chancellor and Chief Governance Officer (CGO). You’ll manage complex calendars, travel, correspondence, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring their offices operate seamlessly and with professionalism. As the first point of contact, your role will be pivotal in maintaining strong relationships and smooth operations. This component of the role will be a job share with one common day anticipated across the individuals sharing the role.

Strategic Program Management (0.4 FTE)

Lead the strategic direction and administration of the Honorary Awards program, ensuring it aligns with the University’s mission and enhances its reputation. It involves developing nomination frameworks, refining processes for transparency and inclusivity, and leveraging awards to promote engagement and collaboration - each award reflecting the University’s values and commitment to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the Chancellor’s and CGO’s offices with discretion, professionalism, and efficiency.

• Coordinate strategic communications, briefing materials, and reports.

• Lead the design and implementation of frameworks for Honorary Awards nominations and events.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including Senate Fellows, senior executives, and government representatives.

• Provide strategic advice and ensure alignment with University priorities.

About You

• Highly organised and proactive professional who thrives in complex environments.

• Significant experience in executive support at the highest organisational levels.

• Strong strategic planning, project management, and analytical skills.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities.

• A deep understanding of governance structures, ideally within the higher education sector.

• Advanced computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite, with extensive diary management experience.

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement 

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. 

We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion. 

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. 

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or support filling out this application, please contact Kristy Fairweather, Recruitment Operations, by email to [email protected]

© The University of Sydney

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

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