Chief Information Security Officer

• Strategic Leadership Opportunity
• Operate and Influence Decisions at the Executive Level
• Manage security across a rich ecosystem of systems, networks, cloud services, and research platforms

As our Chief Information Security Officer, you will be the University's foremost authority on cybersecurity, and IT governance, risk and compliance. In this critical leadership position, you will shape and drive strategic frameworks that protect our information assets and guide the University in managing complex IT risks—while enabling the pursuit of bold and ambitious goals.

The Role

This role is accountable for the development and leadership of cybersecurity, IT governance, risk and compliance functions across the University. You'll ensure our information systems, infrastructure and processes are secure, resilient and aligned to both sector best practice and legislative and regulatory obligations.

Success in this role means balancing risk and innovation—enabling the University to deliver outcomes confidently, safely and in line with its digital and academic mission.

You will:

• Lead and evolve the University's cybersecurity strategy and risk posture
• Engage and influence senior leaders across the University to champion a strong security culture
• Guide the governance and compliance framework for IT service delivery
• Provide expert advice on strategic, reputational and operational risk
• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team of IT and security professionals
• Represent the University at the highest levels—including Council presentations and regulatory engagements

About You

You are a forward-thinking, influential leader who brings both strategic acumen and operational depth to cybersecurity leadership. You thrive in complexity, communicate with clarity and build strong, trusted relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

This is a Senior Level Professional Staff position is an Executive 5 year contract which will be 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  

IT Services delivers cutting-edge, innovative and cost-effective digital solutions and services to the University’s staff and students to enable the delivery of excellence in education and research and innovation; and to support engagement with communities and partners. IT Services is repositioning to be a technology integrator, broker, trusted advisor and innovator, enabling the University to deliver the Looking Ahead Strategic Plan.

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: 

• Competitive remuneration package commensurate with skills and experience
• Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy
• 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/or extensive experience in a combination of risk management, information security and IT sourcing, and proven expertise in the management of a multidisciplinary team in an Information Technology or higher education environment.
2. Demonstrated significant experience in a senior IT leadership role with the proven ability to motivate varied IT teams to deliver world class performance in multi-year planning, design, development and successful implementation of major technology programs.
3. Business management expertise and a working knowledge of information security risk management and cybersecurity technologies, with a proven track record in developing, influencing and implementing information security policies and procedures.
4. Demonstrated ability to positively motivate and lead staff displaying openness and resilience in responding to change in strategic direction and vision, and in leading organisation-wide business transformation.
5. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to communicate information security and risk-related concepts to technical and nontechnical audiences at various hierarchical levels, ranging from board members to technical specialists, with the ability to engage in difficult conversations with staff in accordance with organisational policies.
6. Ability to build and develop relationships and networks in a consultative and collaborative manner forming mutually beneficial partnerships.
7. Demonstrated knowledge of workplace obligations to, and experience in leading and cultivating 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, Jackie Mottram, Head of Commercial and Communications, Digital Technology Solutions on (02) 4913 8194 or via email jackie.mottram@newcastle.edu.au

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

Closing Tuesday 17th June 2025 11:59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

#LI-KG1