Academic Director - Lifelong Learning

Overview  Academic Director - Lifelong Learning (Online Award Programs)  role oversees all academic elements of the UNSW Online portfolio and collaborates with the Lifelong Learning (LLL) leadership. Reporting to the Dean, Lifelong Learning, the role leads one direct report and aims to position UNSW as a global leader in lifelong learning.
Responsibilities   Shape the strategic direction of lifelong learning at UNSW, focusing on fully online award programs in partnership with the Dean and LLL leadership.
Identify opportunities for new academic programs aligned with industry demand and UNSW’s academic strengths.
Provide strategic oversight to program directors to ensure high academic standards across UNSW Online programs.
Establish and maintain standards, processes, and systems that ensure consistent academic quality, including a robust academic review and continuous improvement framework.
Oversee curriculum development to ensure programs meet industry needs and uphold UNSW’s academic excellence.
Provide academic leadership to all academic staff engaged through lifelong learning.
Engage with third-party providers to ensure alignment with UNSW’s academic standards and develop value-adding academic experiences for students and alumni.
Represent lifelong learning on relevant UNSW committees, promote UNSW’s online education expertise, demonstrate UNSW values, and ensure health and safety risks are effectively managed.
About You   PhD-qualified academic with a strong record of scholarly excellence and relevant experience.
Ability to articulate a strategic vision for lifelong learning and lead organisational change to achieve it.
Proven capability in developing strategies that respond to evolving higher education needs and adult learner expectations.
Demonstrated excellence in designing, delivering, and leading high-quality online learning for adult learners.
Track record in establishing successful award programs and ensuring academic quality, particularly for fully online programs.
Experience managing and collaborating effectively with others, including third-party providers.
Evidence of working collaboratively across complex university environments to deliver shared outcomes.
Exceptional communication, external engagement, and thought leadership skills, with the ability to build strong internal and external partnerships.

How to Apply

Submit your CV and cover letter detailing your interest and suitability for the role before Sunday 11 January 2026 by 11:55pm. Sponsorship is not available for this role; valid Australian working rights are required on application.
UNSW Benefits and Culture  UNSW recognises that its staff are at the core of what we do. Benefits include:
Additional 3 days leave during the December festive period.

Career development opportunities
Up to 50% discount on UNSW courses
Flexible 17% superannuation contributions, additional leave-loading payments and salary sacrifice.
Discounts and entitlements (retail, education, fitness passport)
UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.
Position details:

Location:

Kensington, NSW. This role is based full-time in Kensington NSW; there is no remote working option.

Employment type:

Full-time, continuing role. Remuneration:
Level D – competitive total package.

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