Associate Director, Counter Foreign Interference and Security

Job no: 523451

Work type: Full Time

Location: Not advertised

Categories: Executive

• Lead UWA’s enterprise‑wide response to foreign interference, research security and national security regulation, advising the University Executive on high‑risk, high‑impact matters.
• Act as UWA’s authoritative voice with government, defence and sector partners, shaping policy and practice at a Go8 level.
• Full-time (1.0 FTE) appointment on an ongoing basis.
• Competitive salary.

About the area

This role is the University’s principal specialist role for foreign interference risk, research security, sanctions, export controls, and the University’s participation in the Defence Industry Security Program (DISP).

The role operates at a strategic and operational level, providing expert advice to the University Executive (UE) and senior leaders, leading institutional engagement with government in these areas, and ensuring that complex regulatory requirements are translated into practical, workable processes and training for staff and students. This position requires sound judgement, discretion, and the ability to work confidently with senior executives, government‑linked bodies, academic staff and peer institutions.

About the opportunity

• Partner directly with senior university leadership to influence strategic decisions in a rapidly evolving national security and research landscape.
• Build and embed practical frameworks, policies and training that protect UWA’s research, people and global collaborations.
• Represent UWA across government, defence and peak‑body forums, strengthening institutional credibility and influence.

About you

• Relevant tertiary qualification in related field or proven expertise in the management of significant human and material resources.
• Understanding of the higher education and research environment.
• Experience in foreign interference, research security, sanctions, export controls, DISP, or national security‑related policy.
• Extensive experience providing high‑level policy or advisory support in a complex organisation, preferably in higher education, government, defence or a regulated environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, confident advice to senior decision‑makers.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. This position must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at Negative Vetting Level 1 and hold a current National Police Clearance. Some travel intrastate, and interstate may be required.

Benefits

• Flexible working options considered.
• 26 weeks paid parental leave after one year and 36 weeks after five years continuous service, regardless of gender.
• 4 weeks annual leave with the option to purchase more.
• 13 weeks long service leave after seven/ten years.
• Salary packaging options.
• 17% superannuation, with the option to reduce to the minimum super guarantee.
• Up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full-fee courses.
• Discounted health insurance, and convenient on-campus childcare options.
• Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.

How to apply

Gerard Daniels is assisting the University with this appointment.

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Chris Tan at ctan@gerard-daniels.com or call on 0478 771 338.

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday 14th June 2026.

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

Please note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

Advertised: 25 May 2026 W. Australia Standard Time

Applications close: 14 Jun 2026 W. Australia Standard Time