Murdoch University helps people discover how to make a difference, through education and research endeavour, and remains one of the most inclusive universities in the country, providing students with quality education and recognised academic standing within an engaging and caring environment. We are a university for all, irrespective of background and social standing with a focus on social equity, self-direction and freedom of thought and belief.

With strong links to government, business and the community, Murdoch University helps people discover how to make a difference. We are a young, innovative and enterprising university with more than 23,000 students and 1,700 staff across Perth, Singapore and Dubai. We are committed to high quality education, innovative research, and strong community engagement both locally and internationally.

Our Strategic Plan and Future Horizon 2017-2027 outlines an ambitious blueprint for development and growth, with a focus on one purpose: to be a creative force for current and future generations.

We are clear about our two core goals: to educate free thinkers who thrive in society and are sought after by employers; and, to provide life changing solutions for the world’s big challenges through our outstanding translational research and innovative practice.

• Up to 5 Years Fixed Term (renewable), Full Time
• Level D to E | $146k to $187k plus 17% superannuation contributions and tiered allowance
• Commence no later than 1 July 2023
  

About the opportunity

Murdoch’s School of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences explores complex issues that arise from our past, shape our present, and determine our future.

Our staff, students and graduates confront some of the most urgent challenges of the twenty-first century: they help us build successful and sustainable communities; resolve conflict and ensure human security; address the consequences of environment and climate change; and solve problems, seek truth, and create change.

The Dean plays key leadership role within the University, successfully managing approximately 40 academic staff across a wide range of disciplines, including Asian Studies, Community Development, English, History, Languages, Philosophy, Politics and International Studies, Sociology, Sustainable Development, Theatre and Tourism.

The Dean provides important academic leadership in teaching, research, engagement and operations; works collaboratively with the College to formulate strategic direction and manage resources; liaises closely with University and external partners; and successfully manages complex issues related to staff and students.

Following a recent organisational restructure, the Dean of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences will work closely with the College Pro Vice Chancellor and other School Deans to build the identity and collegiality of the School and College. The Dean will help create excellent academic programs; build a thriving research culture; establish successful industry, community and higher-education partnerships; advance the reputation of the University’s staff, students and alumni; and achieve growth in student enrolments.

The School offers two leading undergraduate programs: the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Global Security. It also has several successful postgraduate coursework programs, including the Master of Community Development, Master of Sustainable Development, Master of Public Policy and Management, and Master of Development Studies.

In 2023, the School is launching the new Indo-Pacific Research Centre, building on decades of specialist teaching, research and professional engagement in the region.

This is an exciting and impactful new position that offers the opportunity to work within a highly-skilled and motivated leadership team. It is ideally suited to candidates with strong strategic, administrative and leadership skills, with demonstrated experience working in an inter-disciplinary team, and expert problem-solving skills.

As the successful applicant you will:

• Build, lead, mentor and manage an interdisciplinary academic team.
• Work collaboratively with others to strategically manage the School and its operations.
• Create outstanding, innovative and future-facing academic programs.
• Continuously improve curriculum and opportunities for student learning.
• Build a flourishing and well-resourced research culture.
• Build reputation and strategic partnerships with industry, community and other stakeholders.
• Increase the engagement of staff and students.
•  Achieve growth of domestic and international enrolments in undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
• Actively maintain teaching and/or research practice.

We are looking for a Dean (Head of School) who possesses:

• Demonstrated ability to lead, manage and develop academic staff, including the ability to lead change, mentor others, and establish successful working relationships with members of your team.
• Excellent administrative, organisational, problem-solving, and self-sufficiency skills.
• Demonstrated success in working with others to create strong partnerships with colleagues, academic and administrative units, and external parties.
• Strategic vision to create and maintain innovative academic programs.
• Knowledge of the tertiary education sector, including the tertiary education landscape, academic and administrative processes, legislation, and equity principles.
• Demonstrated experience in meeting University governance, academic and administrative requirements.
• A strong academic track record.
• Demonstrated evidence of student-centred values and experience in student matters including complaints, misconduct, and equity-related issues.
• High-level written and oral communication skills, including influencing, facilitating, presenting, active listening, and providing constructive feedback.
• Alignment with the University’s foundation principles and values.

Desirable:

• Experience in the managing of resources, including budgets.
• Doctoral (PhD) qualification in an area relevant to the School, or equivalent experience.
• An existing or previous academic appointment at Level C (Senior Lecturer) or above.

Your application should provide:

• A current CV (resumé);
• A covering letter, in which you demonstrate with evidence and examples your ability to meet the selection criteria of this role; and
• At least three referees who can speak to your leadership and administrative skills, ability to work successfully with others, experience in achieving strategic goals, and/or your academic excellence. At least one of these referees should be a current or former line manager.

Candidates may be requested to engage in stakeholder consultation forums as part of the interview process. Referees may be contacted before or after interviews are conducted.