College General Managers - College of Engineering, Science and Environment and College of Human and Social Futures

College General Managers - College of Engineering, Science and Environment and College of Human and Social Futures

Job no: HRC0021816

Category: Professional

Opportunity to join a globally connected, future-focused university at a pivotal moment of transformation. Partner with senior academic leaders to shape strategy, performance and impact across diverse and complex Colleges. Senior executive roles | 5-year fixed term | Newcastle-based

The University

The University of Newcastle is a globally recognised institution with a strong sense of purpose, committed to delivering world class education and research while making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves. Guided by its values of equity, excellence, engagement and sustainability, the University has built a reputation for combining academic rigour with real world relevance.

As a university “of and for its regions”, it plays a critical role across Newcastle, the Hunter, the Central Coast and beyond, partnering with industry, government and community to address complex challenges and create lasting social and economic value.

The University is entering a new phase of ambition through its Looking Ahead 2030 strategy, an agenda focused on delivering life ready graduates, research with impact, and deep, place-based engagement. This next chapter reinforces its commitment to innovation, global connectivity and strengthening outcomes for students, partners and communities alike.

With more than 39,000 students, a diverse multi campus footprint including international locations, and a position among the top universities globally, the University of Newcastle offers an environment defined by scale, complexity and opportunity.

The Colleges

1. College of Engineering, Science and Environment

The College of Engineering, Science and Environment brings together disciplines across engineering, science and environmental fields, supported by significant technical capability and infrastructure. It is characterised by strong industry engagement and applied research, with a growing opportunity to further embed external partnerships and enhance research outcomes.

Operating at scale and across a complex environment that includes extensive facilities and technical teams, the College is focused on strengthening its strategic direction, improving operational efficiency and aligning resources to future priorities.

2. College of Human and Social Futures

The College of Human and Social Futures encompasses a broad and multidisciplinary portfolio across the humanities and social sciences, delivered across multiple campuses and international locations. It has a strong global outlook, with a significant international student presence and expanding international partnerships.

The College is well positioned for growth, particularly in international education, research development and community engagement. There is a clear opportunity to sharpen strategic execution, enhance coordination across locations, and support priority initiatives including First Nations advancement and global collaboration.

The Role(s)

Reporting to the Pro Vice-Chancellor and working as a key member of the College Executive, the College General Manager is responsible for enabling the overall performance of the College across strategy, operations, people and resources.

You will play a central role in translating strategy into action, ensuring that plans are effectively implemented and that the College is operating with discipline, alignment and accountability.

Key areas of focus include:

• Leading and coordinating strategic and operational planning
• Overseeing financial management, governance and resource allocation
• Driving operational effectiveness and continuous improvement
• Supporting major initiatives and change programs
• Providing high-quality advice to inform decision-making
• Leading and developing professional staff and building capability across teams
• Fostering a culture of enterprise and entrepreneurialism
• Strengthening alignment between the College and broader University functions

The role requires a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution, with the ability to operate confidently across both.

About You

You are an experienced senior leader with a track record of delivering outcomes in complex organisations. You are comfortable working at pace, navigating ambiguity and influencing across diverse stakeholder groups.

You bring:

• Experience supporting executive leadership to deliver strategy and organisational priorities
• Strong financial, operational and governance capability
• Demonstrated experience leading change and improving performance
• The ability to build trust while introducing new ways of working
• Highly developed communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• A proactive and solutions-focused approach

Experience in higher education is valued, though not essential. Candidates from government, research, health, or other large and complex operating environments are encouraged where they bring relevant experience and perspective. You will be someone who brings fresh thinking, energy and initiative while respecting the strengths of existing teams and culture.

Why Join

These roles offer the opportunity to contribute at a senior level within a university that is actively evolving and looking outward.

You will have the chance to:

• Work closely with senior academic leaders on strategic priorities
• Influence the direction and performance of large, complex Colleges
• Drive meaningful change across people, systems and processes
• Contribute to research growth, international expansion and industry engagement
• Be part of a broader leadership group shaping the University’s future

How to Apply

For a confidential discussion or to request a copy of the Candidate Brochure please contact Phil Graham or Lisa Gleichmann of The Orchard Talent Group:

• regarding the College General Manager, College of Engineering Science and Environment role, please email: CGMCESE@orchardtalent.com.au.
• regarding the College General Manager, College of Human and Social Futures role, please email: CGMCHSF@orchardtalent.com.au.

Confidential discussions are encouraged and enquiries will be handled with discretion.

To apply please submit your current CV and a brief statement outlining your motivation and relevant experience via the relevant email above. Please note applicants must have a legal right to work in Australia.

Applications close 18th May 2026