Head of School, School of Justice
Head of School, School of Justice
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 Justice.
As Head of School, you will lead an interdisciplinary team of scholars, educators and practitioners committed to tackling complex social issues and shaping a more just and equitable future. This is your opportunity to shape the next chapter of a school known for its leadership in criminology, violence prevention, policy reform and social change.
Working closely with the Director of the QUT Centre for Justice and the Faculty Executive, you will work collaboratively to advance our priorities for collaboration, inclusivity and engagement by strengthening partnerships across disciplines, sectors and international boundaries.
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 Justice is internationally renowned for criminology and justice education and research, offering a range of undergraduate, honours and graduate certificate options for study.
Our courses prepare students to see the world in a different light, and prepare them for careers in policing, policy, corrections, intelligence and security, social justice and the law. Our courses are designed in consultation with industry to have a strong foundation in the current legal landscape.
We have a strong research culture including current DECRA ARC award holders and a number of staff leading ARC projects and other research grants.
About you
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- A doctoral qualification or equivalent in a relevant justice, criminology, policy or cognate 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
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