"Chief Executive Officer"

Job Description:

About UQ Sport

For more than a century, UQ Sport has led sport and recreation at The University of Queensland. Our not-for-profit organisation is committed to empowering people of all abilities to embrace movement and build lifelong connections.

As one of Queensland’s largest multi-sport facilities, we provide exceptional Athletics, Aquatic, Tennis and Fitness Centres, alongside expansive grass and synthetic fields, indoor and outdoor courts, function spaces and retail outlets.

Our people are more than employees, they are trusted team members who actively support over 4,000 customers and a further 7,000 participants across UQ's 35+ sporting clubs. We promote a healthy work-life balance, prioritises wellbeing, encourages professional growth and never forgets to have fun along the way. We are united by a commitment to create an active and inclusive environment where everyone can move, achieve their personal best, and feel like they genuinely belong.

About This Opportunity

UQ Sport is seeking an outstanding Chief Executive Officer to lead our organisation through its next chapter of growth and transformation.

This role is not just about running venues – it's about inspiring people. You’ll be a leader people want to follow: someone who builds a values-led culture where teams feel energised, connected, and empowered to do their best work every day.

As CEO, you’ll work closely with our Board and the UQ community to shape strategy, drive performance, and build long-lasting partnerships. You’ll play a pivotal role in reinforcing UQ Sport’s reputation as a leader in the university and community sport sectors.

What You’ll Bring

• Leadership with Impact: A track record of building inclusive, high-performing cultures where people thrive. You lead with authenticity, and people respond with trust, respect, and performance.
• Sporting Sector Experience: Deep understanding of managing sport and recreation facilities, competitions, and stakeholder networks – ideally in a university, commercial, or community setting.
• Commercial Acumen: Proven ability to operate in a financially sustainable way, managing budgets, identifying growth opportunities, and securing new revenue streams, partnerships, and sponsorships.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Experience navigating diverse and at times challenging stakeholder groups – from students and clubs to academics and partners – with diplomacy and resilience.
• Strong Governance and OHS Knowledge: Working knowledge of legislative frameworks relevant to sport, including work health and safety. You know how to put effective systems, governance, and controls in place.

Want to Apply?

If you’d like to have a confidential discussion or would like to obtain the full information pack, please contact Paige Willemse (Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition, UQ) via talent@uq.edu.au.

When you’re ready to submit an application, we ask that you please create a profile via the UQ careers website and upload the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover letter summarising how your background aligns to this opportunity

Other Information

UQ and UQ Sport know one of our strengths lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. Reach out to talent@uq.edu.au for a confidential discussion about any accessibility support or adjustments you may need during the recruitment process or beyond.

Applications close Sunday 10 August at 11.55PM AEST.