Secretariat - Policy and Assurance

• Be at the heart of critical decision-making processes
• Influence and shape key policies and governance structures
• Dynamic mix of responsibilities, from project management and policy development

Be challenged and imagine with us

The Academic Division Secretariat – Policy and Assurance provides high-level administrative support to the Senior Executive Officer with ownership over a broad range of functions and projects within the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) . This position plays a significant role in ensuring alignment with relevant standards and legislation, supporting policy development and review, and facilitating internal and external reporting. This role suits someone who enjoys working autonomously, is comfortable working to deadlines, extremely organised with an eye for detail. You will have the opportunity to structure and organise the role in a supportive team where continuous improvement is welcomed and encouraged.

Key responsibilities of the role include:

• Providing expert advice, analysis, and support to the Senior Executive Officer and the DVCA on policies, governance, regulations, and reporting requirements.
• Drafting, managing, and reviewing communications and correspondence, including briefings, reports, submissions, speeches, and notes
• Working closely with the Senior Executive Officer to prioritise and develop plans and reports related to the University’s and Division’s strategic objectives.
• Researching and preparing advice, information, and reports on a variety of policy, planning, and operational matters to inform decision-making and planning.
• Coordinating and supporting Academic Division workplans, papers, and presentations for Council and its committees, the Executive Leadership Team, Academic Senate, and the Teaching and Learning Committee.
• Providing comprehensive committee/board servicing, including attending and minuting meetings, drafting agendas, managing action registers, and ensuring records management.
•  Leading and managing projects to support strategic and operational objectives of the Portfolio.
• Building and maintaining strong internal and external stakeholder relationships
• Acting as a key point of contact, coordinating communication, and ensuring timely responses to stakeholder requests
• Supporting the Senior Executive Officer in high-level negotiations to develop and realise strategic opportunities and partnerships.

This continuing position is full time at a HEW 7 Higher Education Level located at Callaghan Campus.

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University of Newcastle’s Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2020-2025 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. 

For more information click here – Our Uni. 

About the Unit  

The Academic Division plays a crucial role in supporting and enhancing the student experience across the University’s multiple campuses. It oversees student administration and conduct, support services, libraries, Indigenous education, educator enablement, and pathways to higher education, all aimed at improving student outcomes.

Led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), the Division drives a transformative agenda focused on equity, access, and quality assurance. The Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) provides strategic support, manages special projects, and advises on complex policy, compliance, and governance issues.

What we offer

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively. 

These include: 

• The remuneration range for this position is $99,655 - $112,112 p.a. + superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience
• Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy
• 17% super and salary packaging
• Additional University Holiday days, generous personal leave and parental leave, annual leave loading and additional purchased leave scheme
• Discounts in private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more
• Wellbeing programs

Your next steps 

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role. 

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application. 

Your application must include: 

• Your resume
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity
•  A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed below demonstrating your qualifications and experience with examples.

1. Postgraduate qualifications and extensive relevant experience; or extensive experience and management expertise; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training
2. Exceptional interpersonal and oral communication skills with demonstrated ability to engage effectively with, advise and support senior executives, managers and staff at all levels across an organisation.
3. Strong writing skills including significant experience in the preparation of strategic documents and/or Policy and demonstrated ability to write for different audiences using an appropriate register.
4. Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment in the provision of advice and in undertaking actions to solve problems and manage sensitive matters.
5. High level secretariat/administrative, project management and organisational skills including the ability to operate effectively under pressure and handle a large, diverse range of complex and sensitive matters.
6. Knowledge and understanding of the external factors and issues relevant to the higher education sector.
7. Demonstrated knowledge of workplace obligations to, and experience in leading and cultivating workplace practices and behaviours that promote, support and maintain a safe, healthy, equitable, diverse and respectful workplace, including responding appropriately to adverse accidents, incidents, behaviours, issues, reports and the like.

To ensure that your application receives full consideration, it's important to structure and address the selection criteria outlined in the application process. This helps us better understand your experience and suitability for the role. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to reviewing your application.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document.

Your Cover Letter and Response to the Essential Criteria should not exceed 4 pages (approximately 2,000 words).

For specific position enquiries, please contact Cassie Connor, Senior Executive Officer on 0419 608 755 or via email Cassie.Connor@newcasle.edu.au

Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au

Closing date: Sunday 15^th September 2024 at 11.59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

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