Academic Director - Lifelong Learning

Academic Director - Lifelong Learning – Join UNSW

We are seeking an experienced academic leader to drive the growth of UNSW Online’s fully online award programs for working professionals.

Employment Details

• Employment Type:
  
  Full-time, Continuing role
• Location:
  
  Kensington, NSW (on site; no remote option)
• Remuneration:
  Level D – competitive total package

About UNSW

UNSW is Australia’s global university, committed to research excellence, outstanding education and a just society.

About the Role

As Academic Director of Lifelong Learning, you will oversee all academic aspects of the UNSW Online portfolio, collaborate with LLL and university teams, and report to the Dean.

• Shape and drive the strategic direction of lifelong learning at UNSW, focusing on fully online award programs.
• Identify opportunities for new academic programs aligned with industry demand and UNSW’s strengths.
• Provide strategic oversight to program directors, ensuring high academic standards.
• Establish and maintain standards, processes and systems for consistent academic quality, including review and continuous improvement.
• Oversee curriculum development to meet industry needs and UNSW’s excellence.
• Lead academic staff across lifelong learning.
• Engage with third‑party providers to align with UNSW’s standards and create value‑adding experiences.
• Represent lifelong learning on relevant UNSW committees, promote online education expertise and manage health and safety risks.

• PhD-qualified academic with strong scholarly record.
• Ability to articulate a strategic vision for lifelong learning and lead organisational change.
• Proven track record 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 adults.
• Experience establishing successful award programs and ensuring academic quality, particularly for online programs.
• Strong collaboration skills with third‑party providers and across complex university environments.
• Exceptional communication, external engagement and thought‑leadership skills; ability to build partnerships.

Submit your CV and cover letter detailing your interest and suitability for the role (address the skills and experience bullet points above) before Sunday 11th January 2026, 11:55pm.

Note:

Sponsorship is not available; valid Australian working rights are required.

• 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.
• Various discounts and entitlements (retail, education, fitness passport).

Equal Employment Opportunity

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those 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.