Director, Culture, Capability and Belonging at University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong · Wollongong, Australia · Onsite
- Senior
- Office in Wollongong
- Level 10 | Senior Management
- Full-time / Maximum term 5 years
- People & Culture Division, Vice President (Operations) Portfolio
- Location: UOW Wollongong Campus.
Reporting to the Chief People & Culture Officer, the Director, Culture, Capability and Belonging is a newly created leadership role, established at a pivotal time in UOW’s journey.
The University has entered a period of renewal and transformation. With change comes the opportunity to reset and strengthen how we work, lead, and connect. This role will be central to shaping a people and culture agenda that is values-led, inclusive, and future-focused — and to building the cultural foundations that will support UOW’s long-term success.
This is a defining opportunity for a values-driven leader who is passionate about building capability, fostering inclusion, and enabling a culture where people feel valued, trusted, and empowered to thrive.
You will lead a broad and high-impact portfolio, including:
In this role, you will lead:
- Culture transformation – designing and leading initiatives that embed UOW’s values, strengthen belonging, and build a positive people experience.
- Capability and leadership development – providing enterprise leadership of the newly created UOW Academy, ensuring professional, academic, and leadership programs prepare our people for the future.
- Talent and Performance planning – overseeing performance and succession frameworks that develop talent and support long-term workforce sustainability.
- Reward and recognition – embedding a values-based approach that celebrates achievement, reinforces cultural alignment, and supports retention.
- Equity, diversity, and belonging – ensuring inclusive practices are woven through people policies, frameworks, and everyday practices.
- Partnership and collaboration – working closely with academic and professional leaders to embed the Values in Action Framework and co-design initiatives that build engagement and performance.
- Measurement and improvement – using data, insights, and feedback to evaluate impact and drive continuous improvement.
- Foster collaboration across P&C teams and with external partners to co-design, scale and embed initiatives that enhance people experience and organisational performance.
About you:
You are a collaborative, strategic leader with a strong track record in shaping organisational culture, building capability, and advancing inclusion. You bring vision, influence, and the ability to translate intent into meaningful outcomes. Energised by the opportunity to lead through change, you thrive on creating environments where people can do their best work and feel proud to belong.
How to apply:
Applicants are requested to submit a resume and cover letter. The cover letter should be no more than 3 pages, summarising your skills and experience as they relate to the selection criteria outlined in the position description.
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Ali Bourke at [email protected].
Closing date: Friday 10 October, 12pm (midday)
Note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Only candidates with valid work rights in Australia are eligible to apply.
Company
The University of Wollongong was born with a mission to transform our region: to educate and empower the people of the Illawarra. Our commitment to a better future has shaped our direction and impact since our inception.
Over the years, we have grown to be a global diverse and inclusive civic university, working to solve global challenges and promoting harmony and social cohesion. We are proud to be a globally recognised and respected university, opening doors for our students, staff and partners.
