Head of School - School of Psychology

Full time, fixed term for 5 years with the successful candidate being offered a professorial appointment in an appropriate discipline in the school and will retain that position at the conclusion of their headship

Lead one of Australia’s most respected psychology schools, shaping the future of research and education in a globally recognised institution.

Offering a competitive remuneration package including 17% superannuation

About the opportunity

The University of Sydney is seeking an outstanding academic leader to join the Faculty of Science as Head of School, School of Psychology. This is a pivotal role that shapes the future of psychology education and research at one of Australia’s leading universities. You will lead a dynamic school, drive innovation in teaching and research, and foster a culture of collaboration and excellence.

Key responsibilities will be to:

• provide strategic leadership and management for the development and delivery of academic programs
• lead initiatives to enhance educational excellence and student experience
• identify emerging trends to support innovation and quality improvement
• manage the school’s financial sustainability and oversee budget planning
• mentor and develop academic and professional staff to achieve strategic goals
• represent the school in external engagement, industry partnerships, and public forums

About you (skills, capabilities and experience)

• a PhD in a relevant field
• demonstrated leadership and management experience in a tertiary environment
• a track record in strategic planning and delivery
• experience in financial management and budget oversight
• ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders
• proven capability in staff development and performance management.

Key benefits

• a University contribution of 17% of your base salary to your superannuation fund
• tax-efficient salary packaging options for cars, laptops, and additional contributions to your superannuation fund
• generous relocation allowance if moving from interstate or overseas
• access to fitness passport, as well as discounted rates on university sports and fitness centers
• gain the recognition of working in a leading University.

Term and remuneration

The successful candidate will be offered a five-year fixed term position on a full-time basis, with the successful candidate being offered a professorial appointment in an appropriate discipline in the school and will retain that position at the conclusion of their headship. The appointment is subject to completion of a satisfactory probation period for new appointees.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.

How to apply

Applications (including a CV and cover letter outlining how your skills, capabilities and experience meet the requirements for the role) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. Please refer to the candidate information brochure and position description for further details.

Click to view the Candidate Information Brochure for this role.

Click to view the Position Description for this role.

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Saj Bahram (Senior Talent Partner, Senior Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Operations) by email sajad.bahram@sydney.edu.au

Applications Close

Sunday 28 June 2026 11:59 PM