An opportunity exists for an accomplished senior finance leader to step into a high-impact role supporting one of Australia’s leading universities in driving strategic initiatives across research, infrastructure, commercialisation, and global engagement portfolios.

About the Opportunity
This senior-level role plays a key part in guiding the financial performance of a $160M portfolio, providing strategic advice, high-quality forecasting, business case development, and performance analysis. Working within a complex and intellectually rich academic environment, the position collaborates closely with Professional Service Unit Directors, five Pro Vice-Chancellors, and the Strategy Office to shape financial decisions aligned with long-term institutional goals.
Reporting to the Associate Director of Finance, this role oversees a small team Finance Managers and contributes directly to high-level financial strategy, stakeholder engagement, and systems improvements across research and student administration functions.

Key Responsibilities
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting cycles for key research and advancement initiatives.
• Provide robust financial modelling and analysis to support strategic business cases and funding proposals.
• Drive year-end processes and lead planning initiatives during peak periods (e.g., December shutdown).
• Act as a trusted business partner to academic and professional leaders.
• Coach and mentor a high-performing finance team to promote continuous development and operational excellence.
• Manage compliance, risk, and financial integrity in line with policy and audit frameworks.

Ideal Candidate Profile
• Degree qualified in Finance, Accounting or a related field; CPA/CA preferred.
• Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role within higher education, government, or large-scale corporate environments.
• Expertise in financial planning, business partnering, and complex stakeholder management.
• Comfortable navigating high levels of ambiguity, with strength in policy, systems, and process-led financial

Why This Role?
This position offers a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of research, innovation, and global engagement within a top-tier academic institution. You’ll be shaping financial frameworks that directly support national and global research impact—while mentoring future finance leaders in a high-performance culture. Contact [email protected]