Lead enterprise-wide HR operations, payroll governance, and workforce analytics to drive continued improvement of the existing function and embed our new Operating Model.
The Opportunity
The Director, Operations and Enablement plays a pivotal role in shaping the quality, reliability, and maturity of Western Sydney University’s people operations environment. This role leads all elements of HR operational service delivery, including payroll, HR systems, workforce analytics, compliance, and Tier 0–Tier 1 service optimisation. With responsibility for the University’s high volume, high impact people processes, you will ensure that services are efficient, compliant, digitally enabled, and continuously improving. You will provide strategic direction for critical systems across HR, embedding robust governance, streamlined processes, and the uplift of digital literacy across the Office for People. This includes overseeing the delivery of accurate and audit ready payroll operations, standardisation of HR processes, automation opportunities, and data analytics that enable executive decision making and workforce planning. The role also has a strong mandate for innovation, including the introduction of creative AI-powered workflow and self-service enhancements that support an improved staff experience. As a senior leader, you will collaborate closely with HR, Finance, IT, Legal and Risk, executive stakeholders, and external bodies to ensure integrated, high quality services. You will lead a team of senior managers responsible for Operations, Payroll and Compliance, and HRIS and Analytics, fostering a culture grounded in accountability, collaboration, service excellence, and continuous improvement.
What Success Looks Like:
* HR operations, payroll, systems, and analytics functions operate reliably, compliantly, and efficiently in line with institutional standards.
* Digitally enabled HR processes, automation initiatives, and service improvements are implemented and embedded.
* Payroll accuracy, governance, compliance and audit readiness are consistently maintained.
* Workforce data and analytics actively inform strategic workforce planning and executive decision making.
* Cross University partnerships strengthen the consistency, effectiveness, and integration of HR services.
* Extensive senior leadership experience in HR operations, payroll, HRIS, or workforce analytics within a large and complex organisation.
* Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, enterprise agreements, compliance frameworks, and HR governance. Experience working within a Pay Compliance environment would be desirable.
* Proven capability in digital transformation, HR process optimisation, automation, and systems governance.
* Exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, with proven experience influencing senior leaders.
* Experience leading large teams and driving service excellence, innovation, and cultural change.
Benefits
* Fitness Passport: Access hundreds of gyms and pools across the state.
* Onsite Childcare: Convenient facilities with exclusive staff discounts and salary packaging options.
* Financial Benefits: Salary sacrifice options for onsite parking and novated motor vehicle leasing.
* Holistic Support: Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) along with discounted retail and private health cover.
* Working Rights: You must provide evidence of full-time working rights in Australia at application.
* How to Apply: Please note that only applications submitted via the University’s online recruitment system will be considered.
Belonging at Western
We are committed to substantive equality as outlined in our Equal Opportunity Policy. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, candidates of all gender identities and expressions, people of all abilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
For Reasonable Adjustments during the application process, please contact talentacquisitionteam@westernsydney.edu.au.
About Western
By joining Western Sydney University, you become a valued member of our community. Our mission is to deliver student success, impactful research, and stronger communities. As part of our team, you will have a stake in shaping the future of education, broadening horizons, and changing lives.
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