Performance Policy and Operations Manager

This is an identified position and applicants must be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. Being an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person is a genuine occupational qualification as authorised under Section 14(D) of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act, 1977 NSW.

Candidates who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torries Strait Islander will be required to demonstrate their heritage by way of providing Confirmation of Aboriginality in line with University procedure. 

Be challenged and imagine with us

The Wollotuka Institute at the University of Newcastle is seeking a dedicated and experienced Policy, Performance and Operations Manager to join our team. This pivotal role leads the planning and delivery of technical, operational, strategic, financial, data and compliance functions, ensuring alignment with relevant policies, procedures and regulatory requirements. The role focuses on enhancing organisational performance, strengthening control systems, and supporting the achievement of Wollotuka’s objectives.

This role incorporates:

• Leadership and collaborations
• Operational support
• Project management and evaluation
• Strategic planning and advice
• Data analysis and reporting
• Continuous improvement and risk management
• Stakeholder engagement and communication

Join the Wollotuka Institute and contribute to our mission of promoting Indigenous education and culture.

This 12-month fixed term position is full time at a HEW 8 Higher Education Level located at Callaghan Campus.

How will you inspire us?

You will have:

• Demonstrated experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with strong cultural understanding and commitment to Wollotuka Cultural Standards
• Proven leadership capability, with experience developing, coaching and leading high-performing teams
• Strong financial management experience, including budget oversight and accountability
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage and partner with senior stakeholders
• Highly developed organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver outcomes
• Experience driving performance, continuous improvement and operational excellence
• Strong analytical and reporting capability, with attention to detail and a focus on compliance and quality 
• Knowledge of governance, policy and regulatory environments, ideally within a complex organisation

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 for this position is from $116,596 to $136,030 p.a. + superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience
• 17% super and salary packaging
• A supportive workplace with a strong commitment to inclusion, equity, and cultural safety.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff leave
• Additional University Holiday days, generous personal, life, and parental leave, annual leave loading, and additional purchased leave scheme
• Discounts on private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more.
• A range of support and wellbeing programs

For more information on benefits and conditions, please follow this link.

About our University

The University of Newcastle is a global leader distinguished by its commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and to create a better future for them 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 2025-2030 outlines the University's commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities.

Your next steps

Important information before you apply:

• If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ (or equivalent) to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy from the Related Documents section before commencing your application.
• Candidates who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torries Strait Islander will be required to demonstrate their heritage by way of providing Confirmation of Aboriginality in line with University procedure.

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 (these may differ slightly from the Position Description, please only respond to the below in your application).

1. Aboriginality is a genuine occupational qualification and is authorised under Section 14 of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. A Confirmation of Aboriginality is required
2. Excellent interpersonal, diplomacy, negotiation, influencing and verbal and written communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate with senior executives, and operational staff
3. Demonstrated high level organisational and project management skills and experience and the ability to meet competing deadlines with a demonstrated ability to be proactive and apply initiative

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document. This document should not exceed 3 pages.

We value diversity and strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are equitable, inclusive, and barrier-free. If you require an alternative pathway to view the Position Description or to submit an application, please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au.

We also seek to provide a fair chance to all applicants by providing reasonable adjustments where required during the assessment and interview phases of the recruitment process.

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.

Contact Us

• For specific position enquiries, please contact Loren Collyer, Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Strategy and Leadership) via email at Loren.Collyer@newcastle.edu.au
• For questions regarding Aboriginality as a genuine occupational qualification for this role, or providing Confirmation of Aboriginality, please reach out to Simone Jordan, Indigenous Employment Partner on (02) 4055 0897 or via email at simone.jordan@newcastle.edu.au
• Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au Please note, we do not accept email applications.

Closing date: Monday, 6 July 2026 at 11.59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do. 

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.  

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