Head of School, School of Communication
Head of School, School of Communication
Term: This appointment will be offered on a fixed-term, full-time basis for five (5) years.
Remuneration: An attractive remuneration package will be negotiated with the successful applicant.
Location: This position is primarily based at our Kelvin Grove campus.
Job opens: 11 May 2026
Applications Close: Monday, 8 June 2026 at 11:30pm AEST
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking an outstanding academic leader to join us as QUT’s Head of School, School of Communication. As Head of School, you will lead one of Australia’s most highly regarded schools for teaching, research and engagement in communication and media. This is an opportunity to shape the next phase of a globally recognised school operating at the forefront of media, communication and digital industries.
In this role, you will be responsible for the academic leadership of the School, fostering a culture of collaboration, performance and innovation. This includes encouraging staff to achieve goals, support career development, and foster a culture where people are empowered to contribute and thrive.
Real world impact
QUT is a major Australian university with a global reputation and a ‘real world’ focus. Our courses equip our students and graduates with the skills and mindset they need to realise their full potential in a rapidly changing world.
The School of Communication is Australia’s leading centre for media, communication and digital industries education and research. We are recognised globally for our impact, innovation and engagement. The School’s expertise intersects creativity, technology and society; shaping how communities connect in a rapidly evolving digital world.
Ranked number one in Australia and among the top 20 globally in the field of Media and Communication (QS World University Rankings, 2026), the School has sustained national leadership over more than a decade.
About you
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- A doctoral qualification or equivalent in a relevant discipline with an internationally recognised record of excellence in research and/or scholarship.
- A proven track record of highly developed leadership skills, as demonstrated by the ability to set strategic focus and priorities for the School, translate strategy into operational plans, and monitor and evaluate performance.
- Recognised standing in a relevant discipline, with the credibility and capability to lead high-quality teaching and high-impact research activity in an interdisciplinary context.
- Proven ability to foster a collaborative, high-performing culture, including experience in enabling interdisciplinary teaching and research, supporting academic development, and mentoring staff across career stages.
- Well-developed judgement and decision-making capability, including the ability to assess complex information, take initiative, and consult effectively with others to enable timely, inclusive, and well-informed outcomes.
- Highly effective communication and influencing skills, with the ability to build trust, lead constructive dialogue, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders including industry, government, and community partners.
- Demonstrated ability to identify and progress new opportunities for the School in education, research, and engagement, including professional and industry-linked initiatives and partnerships at local, national, and international levels.
- Sound knowledge of employment frameworks, and workplace health and safety obligations, with demonstrated leadership in embedding these responsibilities at both strategic and operational levels.
- Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity and Indigenous Australian engagement.
Life at QUT
At QUT, we know that the real world is about more than just work. Beyond personal and professional fulfilment, life at QUT offers:
- A healthy work-life balance with a blend of on campus and off campus work arrangements for applicable positions.
- 17% super to help you retire in style.
- 26 weeks paid parental leave (with super) for primary carers.
- Salary packaging, Fitness Passport and health insurance discounts.
- Professional development, leadership programs, and study support.
- Commitment to our Indigenous Australian staff networks, leave, development programs, and committee representation.
Explore more benefits of life at QUT
How to Apply
The Insight Group are assisting QUT with the appointment of this position. For a confidential conversation and to receive further information on the role, please contact advising consultants:
Dr Rohan Carr and Ms Emily Witts
The Insight Group
Phone: +613 9654 3288
Email: applications@insightgroup.com.au
Your application submission should include:
- A cover letter articulating your interest and vision for the role;
- A comprehensive CV; and
- A written response addressing the selection criteria to outline your suitability for the position.
Applications Close: Monday, 8 June 2026 at 11:30pm AEST
