About the opportunity

The University of Sydney is Australia's first University and one of the world's leading comprehensive research and teaching universities - ranked 2nd in the world of impact and 4th in the world of graduate employability.

Since our inception nearly 170 years ago, the University has been a leader in improving the world around us, and this drive for innovation and impact continues to be a hallmark of the University's vision for the future. The recent arrival of a new Vice-Chancellor - Professor Mark Scott AO - represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the institution.

The University of Sydney is now looking for a new Vice-Principal (External Relations) - a key leadership role that oversees strategically our external 'presence' and engagement with stakeholders including Sydney-based universities and the broader Higher Education sector, state and commonwealth government, policymakers, media, industry and business partners, existing and prospective student and staff from diverse backgrounds, and all communities the University serves. Continuing to develop our partnerships and collaborations and ensuring that the university remains on message in both its domestic and global activities, the Vice-Principal (External Relations) will lead a diverse team across a range of areas: marketing and communication; government relations; media and public relations; museum and cultural engagement; events; student recruitment and admissions and more. With the University beginning to develop a new strategy plan in 2022, this role will also provide a unique opportunity to help shape the future of the institution over the next decade - and the successful candidate would have a key role in the Executive in helping to drive the execution.

The appointee will bring considerable senior management experience in the areas of external relations and community and public engagement, along with a clear understanding of how these apply to the University of Sydney and the Higher Education sector more broadly, not least as it pertains to industry engagement and government relations. They will be acutely aware of inclusive messaging that reflects the diversity of our staff, students, and external partners. They will bring outstanding interpersonal and communication skills as required of a member of the Senior Executive reporting to the Vice-Chancellor and who will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our external engagement. Marked by personal attributes of integrity, passion, and entrepreneurship, the Vice-Principal (External Relations) will be values-driven and inspired by the University's commitment to positive impact on and "leadership for good" in the communities we serve.

How to Apply

The University of Sydney will be supported in its global search for this appointment by the executive search firm Korn Ferry.

For more information and to apply visit https://www.sydney.edu.au/about-us/careers-at-sydney/senior-leadership-recruitment-vper.html

Applications close at midnight AEDT on Monday 1 November 2021.

The University of Sydney is committed to diversity and social inclusion. Applications from people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; equity target groups including women, people with disabilities, people who identify as LGBTIQ; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged.

© The University of Sydney

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.