University of New England (UNE) | Armidale, NSW | Full-Time
Lead UNE's international growth through a bold, relationship-driven strategy that challenges the conventions of Australian international education
Translate an ambitious vision into operational excellence
Drive a fundamental shift in how UNE engages with the world
The University of New England (UNE) isn't your typical university, and this isn't your typical role.
Regionally rooted but globally networked, UNE has always done things differently. Our new Strategic Plan doubles down on that and we need an exceptional leader to bring it to life internationally.
Be the architect of a bold new international vision
The Role
Reporting to the Executive Principal Student Journey, and under the strategic leadership of the Executive Lead International, you'll hold operational accountability for international student recruitment, partnerships, compliance and load targets, translating UNE's distinctive, relationship-based international strategy into exceptional results.
This is a transformation role. You'll lead a fundamental shift from agent-heavy recruitment toward direct engagement through institutional partnerships, transnational education, offshore learning hubs and industry-integrated pathways. You'll lead through both direct management of international teams and through influence and commissioning across Faculties, Schools and Portfolios, defining what an outstanding international student journey looks like and holding the whole system accountable for delivering it.
What You'll Bring
* Postgraduate qualifications and proven expertise leading transformation in international education
* A track record of significant international student recruitment growth through relationship-based and diversified delivery models
* Dual-mode leadership capability — direct management and matrix environments
* Specialist knowledge of the operational, regulatory and assurance domains of international student recruitment and partnerships
* Cultural intelligence and the ability to build trust across diverse international contexts
* Strong analytical skills and data-driven decision-making
* Complex stakeholder management and project and change management capability
If you're a transformational leader who thrives on converting ambitious strategy into operational reality, and who wants to do it somewhere that genuinely believes in doing things differently, we'd love to hear from you.
At the University of New England, you'll be part of an institution with a proud legacy of innovation, impact, and community connection. Based in Armidale, you will have the opportunity to shape the physical future of one of Australia's most distinctive regional universities—an environment that values creativity, collaboration, and sustainability. Guided by UNE's core values of Bold, Kind, Connected, and Accountable, you will contribute to a culture that is forward-thinking, inclusive, and committed to making a meaningful difference.
About the University of New England
The University of New England (UNE) is a regionally based, globally networked university renowned for the quality of its student experience and the excellence of its research specialisations. It stands as a beacon of innovation, with a legacy stretching back to the 1950s when it became Australia's first provider of distance learning. Today, UNE continues to redefine remote learning through cutting-edge programs and a deeply student-centred approach.
UNE's education model combines unrivalled experience with modern, flexible delivery, ideal for students juggling life, work, or remote locations. With a library of over 200 courses, robust support systems, and a recognised track record for quality, UNE offers more than access to education, it offers a future-focused learning journey designed for success in a rapidly evolving world.
UNE emphasises its people, staff and students' growth and development. We aspire to be a leader in innovation and change and a centre for the Armidale and the North-West communities.
Equity, diversity and inclusion are central to the core values of UNE, and we are committed to engaging, supporting and growing a richly diverse workforce. From the Oorala Aboriginal Centre at the heart of our campus, to the inclusive organisations such as the UNE Ally Network, the UNE Women's Society, and the many international cultural groups - all will feel valued and respected at UNE.
Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
UNE is committed to building a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Australians, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, mature age workers and LGBTQIA+ people.
About Armidale
Armidale is an attractive and vibrant city that combines all the features of a bustling regional town centre with the tranquility of rural living. It boasts gourmet restaurants and cafes, boutique shopping, quality schools and sporting facilities. Surrounded by mountain gorges, waterfalls and national parks, Armidale's natural beauty and distinct seasons make it an ideal place to live and thrive. To find out more, visit https://www.visitarmidale.com.au/experience
Additional Information
* Fixed term five-year contract
* Attractive salary package including up to 17% superannuation (salary packaging options are available)
* Relocation assistance provided
* Travel will be required.
* Applicants must have appropriate Australian work rights for the duration of this position (UNE will not provide sponsorship for this position)
Enquiries and additional information
UNE has engaged the services of Towardco for this important role. For a confidential discussion, please contact Terri Ward, Principal Towardco on 0447 667 439 or email terri@towardco.com
You will find the Position Statement here: Executive Recruitment - University of New England (UNE)
Closing Date: Midnight, Thursday 23 April 2026
Reference No: UNEDIRR3003
To Apply
Please submit a cover letter telling us why this role excites you and how your experience meets the key selection criteria outlined in the Position Statement with your current CV. Send your application to terri@towardco.com quoting reference UNEDIRR3003 in the subject line.
Please note that only applications received via this email address will be considered.
Pre-employment Checks
The successful candidate will be required to undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check prior to commencement. A criminal record does not automatically exclude candidates unless a specific legal requirement applies. Please visit the UNE Privacy Statement for information on how your data is managed.
About Our Process
UNE is committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of this role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome. The successful candidate will be required to undertake pre-employment checks prior to commencing in this role as indicated in the position statement. Please visit UNE's Privacy Statement to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.
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