Manager, Collections and Experience

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 are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability. 

Our library team plays a vital role in supporting the University’s strategic education goals and fostering a vibrant research culture. You’ll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking environment that values innovation and continuous improvement. 

About the role 

As the Manager, Collections Experience, you’ll provide inspirational leadership to a team responsible for access, management and engagement with the library’s diverse collections. You’ll promote and coordinate the effective delivery and continuous improvement of collections. You’ll oversee acquisitions, subscriptions, course readings, and resource sharing services, ensuring alignment with teaching, learning, and research priorities of the University. 

You’ll work closely with internal stakeholders including academics, finance staff and promotions teams, as well as external partners such as publishers and vendors. Your leadership will see you coach and empower others to collectively ensure seamless access to content, responsive service delivery, and strategic engagement across the institution. 

You’ll also contribute to financial planning and reporting for academic scholarly resources, using tools like Power BI to analyse usage trends, inform decisions, and communicate the value and impact of collections. 

What you’ll do 

• Lead and inspire a team of motivated professional staff, fostering empowerment, engagement, collaboration and continuous improvement 
• Manage lifecycles, selection, licensing, renewal, and evaluation of library collections
• Contribute to financial planning, budget tracking, and reporting for library collections 
• Leverage data to inform decisions, and to tell compelling stories to showcase the difference our collections make.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to resolve collection issues and improve discoverability and engagement

This is a continuing, full-time position based at our Callaghan Campus, on Awabakal land.  

What we’re looking for 

• A degree with relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and training 
• Experience and/or interest in library collections and related services
• Experience leading teams in a library and/or cultural setting 
• Strong skills in data analysis, visualisation, and reporting 
• Ability to manage budgets, financial reporting, and vendor relationships 
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills 
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver quality outcomes 
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and respectful workplace culture 

What’s on 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:  

• Salary range from $116,596 - $136,030 + superannuation commensurate with skills and experience. 
• 17% superannuation, annual leave loading and salary packaging options.  
• Additional University Holiday days, generous personal, life, and parental leave, and additional purchased leave scheme. 
• Discounts on private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more. 
• A range of support and wellbeing programs. 
• Explore more here - benefits at a glance. 

Your Next Steps 

Click the Apply button to be redirected to the advert on our University of Newcastle jobs page where you will find a guide on how to apply and gain access to the job description 

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 should include: 

• Your Resume (maximum. 4 pages) 
• A one page cover letter outlining to motivation and experience to apply for this opportunity
• A response to each of the three following questions (maximum 2 pages):   

1. Describe your experience leading and developing a high‑performing team within a complex service environment. How have you fostered an engaged workforce while delivering continuous improvement in collections‑related services?
2. Provide an example of how you have used evidence to inform collections management or engagement with library collections. How did you make sure you met organisational strategic priorities, and how did you collaborate with stakeholders to deliver an experience‑led outcome?
3. Outline your experience leading complex projects and managing significant change within a collections or service‑based environment.

For the full list of the selection criteria and role responsibilities, please download the Position Description (available in the Related Documents section below). 

Applications Close:  Wednesday May 6th 2026 at 11:59PM AEDT 

Our assessment process 

Typically candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process: 

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process) 
• Referee checks 
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role 

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive. 

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes. 

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University. 

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance—it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable. 

Reasonable Adjustments  

If you require any adjustments to the recruitment process to support your application, please let us know. This information will help us understand how best to support you and ensure an equitable and inclusive recruitment process.  

Please be assured that anything you share will be treated respectfully and appropriately. Our goal is to provide the best environment for every candidate to demonstrate their suitable skills and experience. 

Contact Us 

For specific position enquiries, please contact Bronwen Thomas, Manager, Collections and Scholarly Publishing – 02 49215829 or Bronwen.Thomas@newcastle.edu.au  

Please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au if you are experiencing any difficulties or would like to discuss reasonable adjustments. 

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you 

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Birpai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present. 

  #LI-CH1