Head Of School - School of Humanities and Social Sciences

Head of School, School of Humanities & Social Sciences – UNSW Canberra

This Job is based in Australia.

Full-time, 5-year leadership appointment

Competitive industry salary package

UNSW Canberra, Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Campus, Canberra ACT

UNSW Canberra is a unique national institution, combining world-class education and research with strong partnerships across Defence, government and industry. Located at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), we are committed to developing future leaders through outstanding teaching, innovative research and meaningful societal impact. With almost 60 years of collaboration with the Australian Defence Force, UNSW Canberra provides a distinctive environment where academic excellence meets real-world impact.

The School of Humanities & Social Sciences (HASS) is a vibrant academic community dedicated to understanding people, societies and the forces shaping our region and the world, with a focus of defence and security‑related issues. Home to internationally recognised researchers, educators and professional staff, the School delivers excellence across disciplines including history, international and political studies, Indo-Pacific studies, war studies, ‘lawfare’, ethics, security studies, human‑centred cyber and space systems, strategic affairs and English and media studies.

Its interdisciplinary research provides thought leadership on some of today's most significant global challenges, including Asia‑Pacific development and security, conflict and society, international ethics, maritime security, military affairs and future operations. Through its distinctive partnerships with Defence, government and industry, the School develops graduates and research that influence policy, leadership and public debate both nationally and internationally.

To learn more about the School of Humanities & Social Sciences, please visit:

The Head of School provides strategic, academic and operational leadership for the School of Humanities & Social Sciences, ensuring excellence across research, education, people leadership and external engagement. Working closely with the Rector, UNSW Canberra, the Head of School is a key member of the Faculty Executive and plays a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of the School while contributing to the University's strategic ambitions.

Leading a diverse academic community, the Head of School will foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and inclusion while strengthening the School's national and international reputation. The role is responsible for driving outstanding research performance, delivering an exceptional student experience, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhancing engagement with Defence, government, industry and international partners. The successful candidate will champion the critical role that the humanities and social sciences play in developing ethical, informed and globally minded leaders equipped to address complex societal and security challenges.

A continuing academic appointment may be negotiated for an outstanding candidate with the appropriate academic standing and experience.

Specific responsibilities for this role include (but are not limited to):

• Develop and implement a strategic vision for the School aligned with the priorities of UNSW Canberra and the University's strategic plan.
• Inspire and lead a high-performing, collaborative and inclusive academic culture that supports excellence in teaching, research and engagement.
• Champion interdisciplinary scholarship, innovation and continuous improvement across the School.

• Drive research excellence and strengthen the School's national and international reputation.
• Lead initiatives that enhance education quality, student success and curriculum innovation.
• Foster productive collaborations with Defence, government, industry, community organisations and international partners.
• Support research that informs public policy, leadership, national security and broader societal outcomes.

• Lead the recruitment,…