Vice-President (Indigenous Strategy and Engagement)

Wollongong, NSW, Australia

Job Description

Vice-President (Indigenous Strategy and Engagement)

• Full-time / Fixed term (5 year maximum term) 
• Wollongong, NSW

This position is identified for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, pursuant to section14 (d) of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act. UOW considers that being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Descent is a genuine occupation qualification or requirement for this position under relevant anti-discrimination legislation. 

About the Organisation

The University of Wollongong (UOW) is one of Australia’s leading universities, with campuses and communities spanning across New South Wales and beyond. UOW is committed to advancing reconciliation, inclusion and self-determination through meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

Through the Indigenous Strategy and Woolyungah Indigenous Centre portfolios, the University works to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, knowledge and leadership across all aspects of university life. UOW’s long-standing commitment to Indigenous education, research, community engagement and cultural inclusion continues to shape its strategic direction and impact across the higher education sector.

About the role

The Vice President (Indigenous Strategy and Engagement) is a senior executive role responsible for advancing the University’s Indigenous strategy, institutional influence and engagement. Reporting to the Provost, the position provides strategic leadership to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives across University governance, operations and decision-making.

The role leads the implementation of UOW’s Indigenous Strategy and Healing and Recognition Track (HART) Plan, ensuring cultural integrity, strong governance and meaningful outcomes for Indigenous peoples and communities. It oversees the Woolyungah Indigenous Centre and drives strategic outcomes across student success, research, curriculum, employability and community engagement.

As a key institutional representative, the Vice-President strengthens UOW’s profile in Indigenous education through engagement with national and international forums. The role also builds trusted partnerships with Elders and the local community, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, government, industry and philanthropic stakeholders to foster collaboration, create pathways to education and employment, and influence positive sector-wide change.

For a full list of responsibilities, please contact Pipeline Talent via jobs@pipelinetalent.com.au

About you

You are an experienced and respected senior leader with a strong commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination, leadership and community advancement. You bring extensive leadership experience within large and complex organisations, with a demonstrable understanding of university students, education and research. You have the ability to influence strategic direction and drive meaningful organisational change.

You are highly relational and collaborative, with demonstrated experience building authentic, long-term partnerships with Aboriginal communities, Elders and key stakeholders across government, education, industry and the community sector.

Your leadership style is grounded in integrity, emotional intelligence and cultural capability. You are confident navigating complexity, leading through change and creating environments where people feel supported, empowered and connected.

You will bring strong strategic thinking, sound judgement and exceptional communication skills, alongside a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within higher education and broader community contexts.

Key Selection Criteria

Proven senior executive leadership experience within complex organisations, with the ability to influence strategy, governance and institutional outcomes.

Demonstrated capability to build and sustain trusted partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Elders, government, industry and key stakeholders.

Strong experience in governance, strategic planning, financial management and oversight of large-scale budgets and operational frameworks.

Demonstrated commitment to self-determination, strengths-based leadership and initiatives that support community empowerment and long-term impact.

Highly developed interpersonal, negotiation and conflict management skills, with the ability to lead through complexity, change and competing priorities.

Sound understanding of the higher education sector across education and research, including strategies that enhance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student engagement, success and whole-of-journey outcomes within large, complex institutions or equivalent organisational environments.

What we can offer you

Work that matters – play a leading role in shaping Indigenous strategy, engagement and outcomes across one of Australia’s leading universities.

Competitive salary, salary packaging and a structured approach to rewards and incentives.

On-going career and professional development

An internationally respected research institution and the opportunity to work in world class facilities providing real world solutions to real world problems.

How to apply

All applications must include the following:

An up-to-date CVA pitch (maximum 2 pages) outlining your motivations and skills that align to the six (6) selection criteria

Applications are to be submitted via the Pipeline Talent website at: https://www.pipelinetalent.com.au/ 

Applications close at 11:59pm on Monday 29 June 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

How to get more information

For further information on the position, please contact the team at Pipeline Talent.

Tiana Callaughan

Head of Recruitment

tiana@pipelinetalent.com.au | jobs@pipelinetalent.com.au M 0476 538 307| PH 02 8001 6603

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