Dean, School of Education and Tertiary Access

Job ID: 

Applications close date month 2024

For enquiries: Kristie Husk, Talent Acquisition Manager or Professor Michael Wilmore, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)

Work area: Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)

Location: UniSC Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs QLD 4556

Classification: Senior Staff

Supervisor: Professor Michael Wilmore, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)

Employment: Full-time, five-year fixed-term appointment

Position description: 

URL linked here

Position overview

The University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) is seeking an exceptional academic leader to join its senior leadership team as Dean, Education and Tertiary Access. Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), the Dean will provide strategic and operational leadership for one of the University’s most dynamic and impactful academic schools.

The Dean will lead the School of Education and Tertiary Access, a vibrant academic community of more than 50 staff committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement across the disciplines of Education, Outdoor and Environmental Studies, and Tertiary Access Pathways. With strong partnerships across schools, industry, and regional communities, the School delivers nationally accredited education programs, innovative postgraduate and double degrees, and pathway programs that open doors to higher education success.

As a member of the Vice-Chancellor’s extended leadership team and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Portfolio’s leadership group, the Dean will play a key role in shaping and implementing UniSC’s strategic priorities. The position oversees academic and financial management of the School, workforce planning, and the continuous enhancement of teaching, research, and engagement initiatives.

The successful candidate will foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence, supporting and developing staff through effective leadership, mentoring, and professional growth opportunities. A forward-thinking and student-centred approach will be essential in driving sustainable growth, program innovation, and exceptional learning experiences.

This is an outstanding opportunity for a visionary leader to help shape the future of education and tertiary access at UniSC, contributing to the University’s mission to create opportunities through accessible, high-quality education that transforms lives and communities.

About

Primary objectives of the position

The Dean of Education reports to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and will receive broad direction on the strategic priorities and objectives of the university. The Dean will also be a member of the Vice-Chancellor’s extended leadership team. The Dean is responsible for providing strategic leadership to the School, including leading the planning, continuous improvement and innovation in teaching, research and engagement programs.

The Dean is a member of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Portfolio’s leadership team and is responsible for working collaboratively with other School Deans, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) and other Directors and managers in the University. They support the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) in the development and implementation of the University’s strategic priorities and objectives. The Dean is also responsible for leading and managing staff within the School providing support, role clarification, coaching, mentoring, motivation, training and other development opportunities.

Key Accountabilities

Specific accountabilities for this role include:

  1. Strategic leadership
    ·  Successfully continue to maintain the School’s exceptional reputation and lead the development of an appropriate organisational structure and business processes in collaboration with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic).
    · Provide strong leadership to the academic disciplines within the School and foster a culture of high-quality teaching, educational development and research amongst academic staff of the School.
    · Lead the development of the School’s strategic planning processes, ensuring alignment with the strategic objectives and priorities of the Academic Portfolio and University.
    · Provide leadership to the Deputy Deans and other senior staff and work collaboratively with them in developing and implementing plans for learning and teaching, student retention and research within the school to ensure the School and University’s strategic priorities and objectives are achieved.
    · Contribute to the strategic planning of the academic portfolio by working collaboratively with other Deans, Directors and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and by providing advice and recommendations to inform strategic decision-making.
    · Lead the planning and management of the School’s day to- day operations, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of quality teaching and research outcomes in collaboration with the General Manager, Academic Support Unit.
    · Work collaboratively with the Director, C-SALT (Centre for Support and Advancement of Learning) to ensure the School delivers quality student experiences that contribute to successful student outcomes and retention.
    · Ensure liaison with professional bodies to gain and maintain accreditation for relevant teaching programs.
    · Demonstrate a linkage with staff and students through delivery of teaching, both face-to-face and online.
    · Develop the School’s research profile by leading and encouraging a culture that fosters high quality research and by working collaboratively with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) and provide leadership in the development of research, research training and research supervision in the School.
  2. Business development and engagement
    · Contribute to the growth and future development of the School and University by creating opportunities that raise the academic, education, research and industry/public engagement profile and reputation of the School and University. This includes leading the development of new teaching programs, new teaching delivery methods, successful grant applications and   securing commercial opportunities.
    · Ensure the achievement of the School’s financial targets by working collaboratively with relevant University directorates and schools to achieve successful student recruitment outcomes.
    · Lead the establishment and maintenance of local, regional, national and international relationships and partnerships with industry, government, professional institutions, community organisations and other educational institutions to promote and enhance the University’s profile and to build commercial opportunities for the School.
  3. People management
    · Provide leadership and support to management and leadership positions in the School to ensure the achievement of learning and teaching, student retention and research objectives.
    · Lead, manage, support and coach staff in achieving their objectives. This includes implementing and continuously reviewing the Performance Planning and Review process for all staff and ensuring high quality professional development in teaching and research.
    · Lead workforce planning and staffing within the school ensuring that the learning, teaching, research and engagement needs are met.
  4. Financial management
    · Ensure the financial sustainability of the School by developing, implementing and monitoring a financial and operational plan that increases the School’s profile, income and profitability.
    · Develop and manage the School’s budget, ensuring risks are mitigated.
  5. University Policy
    · Reflect and embed the University’s Principles, Objectives and Strategic Priorities when exercising the responsibilities of this position.
    · Undertake the responsibilities of the position adhering to:
      – The Staff Code of Conduct (Governing Policy) and Conflict of Interest Policy and Procedure
      – Equal Opportunity and anti-discrimination legislation and requirements
      – The requirements for the inclusion of people with disabilities in work and study
      – Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) legislation and requirements

Selection Criteria

Applicants need to demonstrate they meet the following knowledge, skills and experience:

  1. A doctoral or equivalent qualification with relevant professorial and leadership experience and international recognition as a leader in a relevant discipline through a significant record of achievement in teaching, learning, research and leadership.
  2. Demonstrated leadership capabilities, including the ability to initiate and lead change within a complex and dynamic tertiary education institution inclusive of fostering interdisciplinary, cross-school and cross-campus collaboration.
  3. Demonstrated ability to develop, implement and manage strategic, financial and operational plans to achieve successful outcomes, including the ability to control costs, increase revenue, successfully mitigate risks, and to advise and direct reports and, where relevant, centres in budgetary planning and control.
  4. Proven capacity to build and sustain a high-performance school, including the demonstrated ability to lead the development of teaching, research and engagement and to lead, manage and support staff to achieve strategic and operational objectives.
  5. Demonstrated ability to grow the School regionally, nationally and internationally together with the capacity to promote and enhance the profile and reputation of the School and University, including the capacity to develop and grow the School’s commercial and industry engagement and international partnerships.
  6. Knowledge of the Higher Education sector in Australia and internationally, including the changes and challenges faced by the sector, industry trends and developments and the needs of employers in the employing sectors, and the regulatory and legislative requirements and the impacts of these on the School and University.
  7. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the demonstrated ability to develop and implement innovative and practical solutions to diverse and complex problems, exercise independent judgement and accept accountability for outcomes.
  8. High-level interpersonal, communication, influencing and negotiation skills, including the demonstrated ability to develop and sustain collaborative and mutually beneficial relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders.
  9. Knowledge and understanding of the needs of a diverse range of students, including those with disabilities.

Recruitment process

How to apply

Your application should include:

  • Resume
  • A cover letter not to exceed one page. This statement should outline your skills, knowledge and qualities that will make you a success at UniSC.
  • A response to key selection criteria within the online application form

Closing date 

Applications close: 11:55PM AEST 24 November 2025

Contact 

If you have any questions about the position or for a confidential discussion, please contact:

Kristie Husk, Talent Acquisition Manager
Email: khusk@usc.edu.au
Tel: +61 418 884 610

Or

Professor Michael Wilmore, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
Email: dvcacademic@usc.edu.au

Candidates may be requested to undergo psychometric testing and give permission for verification of their tertiary qualifications.

Prospective candidates interested in applying for this position must demonstrate eligibility to work full-time in Australia. Employment sponsorship opportunities are available for qualified candidates.

The environment

At the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC), the School of Education and Tertiary Access stands at the forefront of our mission to create opportunity through accessible, high-quality education. As one of UniSC’s five academic schools - alongside Health, Business and Creative Industries, Science, Technology and Engineering, and Law and Society - the School plays a leading role in shaping how learning, teaching, and engagement are delivered across the University.

Through innovative and nationally accredited programs in Education, Outdoor and Environmental Studies, and Tertiary Access Pathways, the School is deeply connected with schools, industry, and community partners. Its programs empower future educators and change-makers to lead learning in diverse contexts, while its pathway offerings open doors for students embarking on their higher education journey.

From UniSC’s foundation campus at Sippy Downs, which opened in 1996, to our five award-winning campuses across South East Queensland and UniSC Adelaide, the School’s influence reaches across regions, championing inclusive access to education and lifelong learning.

UniSC’s distinctive approach to learning and teaching, developed in collaboration with the School, has transformed the student experience. We’ve moved beyond traditional lectures to embrace interactive, student-centred learning through podcasts, simulations, screencasts, recorded discussions, and formative activities, all designed to enhance engagement and outcomes.

Whether students study on campus or online, UniSC’s blended learning model connects them to knowledgeable educators and cutting-edge facilities that replicate real-world environments. From simulated teaching spaces and digital classrooms to modern laboratories and studios, our learning environments ensure students graduate ready to make a difference.

At the core of this innovative learning ecosystem, the School of Education and Tertiary Access continues to lead with purpose, building the next generation of educators, fostering equity and access, and shaping the future of learning across Australia and beyond.

The School of Education and Tertiary Access at UniSC is a dynamic and forward-thinking community of educators, researchers, and students—dedicated to teaching, learning and engagement that transforms and empowers. 

Who we are

  • We bring together over 50 academic staff working across the disciplines of Education, Outdoor and Environmental Studies, and Tertiary Access Pathways.
  • Our collective goal is to prepare graduates as leaders, advocates, and change-agents in local, national and global contexts. 
  • We have established and strong partnerships with public and independent schools throughout our region, which underpin our practical, impactful programs. 

What we do

  • We offer nationally-accredited undergraduate and postgraduate programs including initial teacher education (early childhood, primary and secondary), double degrees, and master’s programs for practising teachers. 
  • We provide a full suite of pathway courses designed to support access to and success in tertiary study, ensuring that diverse students are welcomed and supported. 
  • Our research focus is on education and learning futures: examining issues of access, equity, engagement and excellence across the lifespan, framed from multiple perspectives including academic, caring and creative. 

Our culture & commitment

  • We are a vibrant “hub” of energetic, passionate and knowledgeable staff and students, united by a commitment to quality teaching, meaningful research and community engagement. 
  • Our work is grounded in strong relationships with schools, industry and community partners, ensuring our teaching programs, research projects and student experiences are relevant, responsive and regionally significant.
  • We champion diversity, inclusion and Indigenous engagement, recognising the role of education in supporting social justice, community capacity and human flourishing.

Why this matters

Joining this School means you will be part of a culture that values innovation in teaching delivery, research with impact, and genuine pathways into tertiary education for a broad range of students. You will have opportunities to lead and shape programs, engage with external stakeholders and contribute to a meaningful institutional mission: creating opportunities through accessible, high-quality education that transforms lives and communities.

UniSC is a place where lifelong friends are made, and opportunities are earned. Our diverse community is made up of many people, with many stories, from different backgrounds, ages, cultures and geographical locations.

No matter your background, we know you’ll feel at home at UniSC. From the moment our students walk onto campus to the day they graduate, they're surrounded by encouragement and support.

We are rated as one of Australia's best for overall student experience. We invite you to experience life at UniSC with us, and find out why.

Student life at UniSC

At UniSC, our goal is to provide quality learning experiences that challenge and engage our students and prepare them to live and work in a changing world.

To do this, the curriculum is designed to be:

  • Learning-centred 
  • Standards based 
  • Constructively aligned and 
  • Career and future focussed 

These principles are evidenced in innovative and authentic learning experiences that meet sector standards and industry expectations. In addition, UniSC has Graduate Attributes which are embedded and frame all learning outcomes in courses and programs at UniSC.

Learning and teaching at UniSC

Sustainable UniSC

Welcome to the University of the Sunshine Coast, UniSC for short. A young, fresh university driven by an unwavering belief that community and culture is just as important as a world-class education, delivered by world-class educators. 

We may not be the biggest university, but we’re growing fast, and doing big things. Like ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, producing gold-winning athletes and award-winning alumni. 

Our first campus, on the Sunshine Coast, opened its doors in 1996. Today, our award-winning facilities span five campuses across South East Queensland, an area of unique geographical importance. In fact, UniSC is the world’s only university with campuses on three connecting UNESCO biosphere reserves and the World Heritage Listed K’gari.  

While we acknowledge and learn from the past, as a young university, we aren’t confined by the red tape found inside sandstone institutions. So you’re never going to be bombarded by stale traditions or hear phrases like “That’s the way we’ve always done it”. 

Our job is to empower fresh thinkers and ambitious minds to create positive change and ways of thinking that moves everyone forward. And our students, staff and researchers work hard every day to do just that. 

Together with our people, community and partners, we’re building a safe, sustainable, supportive, future-focused and fun learning environment, where lifelong friends are made, and opportunities are earned. 

We invite you to learn, experience and gain the tools you need to not just create a better tomorrow for yourself, but for the communities and planet you live on.  

We can’t wait to meet you.

The Organisation

UniSC’s organisational structure supports its ambitious agenda. Strong portfolios and flat, clear reporting lines facilitate accountability, flexibility and responsiveness.

Key statistics

A young university at the epicentre of progress. We’re a growing, comprehensive university focused on excellent teaching, ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, and producing award-winning alumni.

Our rankings

We’re a growing, comprehensive university focused on excellent teaching, ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, and producing award-winning alumni. 

Annual Report

View our achievements, challenges and performance against key indicators in our Annual Report.

Strategic Plan 

Our aspiration over the next ten years is to adopt a challenger mindset and be globally recognised in the following domains: Student success by design; World-class research at scale; Sustainability leadership; and Expanding global footprint.

Locations

UniSC stands as the world's sole university with campuses situated within three interconnected UNESCO biosphere reserves and the UNESCO World Heritage Listed K’gari.

Discover

Ready to apply?

Enter your name, email address and APPLY to get started:

 

Please link this page to a job in the Page Settings