Director, Student Services

Director, Student Services

Are you a strategic and dynamic leader passionate about shaping the student experience at one of the world's leading universities?

We are seeking a Director, Student Services to lead and deliver high-quality, student-focused operational services that support the University's strategic vision. Working under the broad direction of the Deputy Registrar and Executive Director (Students), this senior leadership role oversees critical service areas within the Student Services Portfolio, including a sub-set of the following that may rotate over time; Enrolment Services, Credit and Mobility, Scholarships, Fees, Student Centre, Examinations, Graduations, Student Records and Special Considerations.

You will lead large teams, manage complex operations, and ensure service excellence through effective governance, compliance, and continuous improvement. The role also drives transformation initiatives that enhance the student lifecycle, supported by evidence-based planning, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven insights.

This is an exciting opportunity for a proven leader in student administration to influence university-wide operations and deliver meaningful improvements to the student experience.

Why join us?

• Lead a diverse and high-impact portfolio that supports every stage of the student journey
• Drive operational excellence and transformation to improve service delivery and student outcomes
• Collaborate with senior academic, professional, and external partners across a world-class university
• Join a collegial, supportive and inclusive leadership team within the Division of the Academic Registrar

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for student services, aligning delivery with University and divisional objectives
• Oversee large, multi-disciplinary teams, setting goals, managing resources, and ensuring performance excellence
• Lead continuous improvement and transformation initiatives to enhance systems, processes, and student experience outcomes
• Ensure compliance with policy, legislation, and regulatory frameworks across all service areas
• Develop and manage budgets, financial plans, and business cases to support sustainable service delivery
• Use data analytics, benchmarking, and stakeholder consultation to inform strategic planning and reporting
• Build strong partnerships with academic and professional leaders, students, and external stakeholders to enhance collaboration and service alignment
• Represent Student Services on University committees, providing expert advice and strategic direction

About you:

• Extensive experience managing large teams, developing staff, and fostering high-performing, inclusive cultures
• Demonstrated success leading multiple complex projects, using data to support strategic planning, delivery, and reporting
• Strong experience in student administration and support programs, with a clear understanding of current issues impacting the student experience
• Proven background in operational management, including policy development, compliance, and process improvement
• Financial management experience including budget development, monitoring, and reporting
• Demonstrated ability to establish, monitor, and review administrative procedures to ensure service quality and efficiency
• Experience in the higher education or tertiary sector, with working knowledge of planning, enrolment, timetabling, student records, graduations, and event management processes
• Demonstrated capability in staff supervision, training, mentoring, and performance management
• Ability to engage effectively with senior leaders and external stakeholders to influence outcomes and deliver strategic initiatives
• Possesses tertiary qualifications and relevant experience.

To keep our community safe, please be aware of our COVID safety precautions which form our conditions of entry for all staff, students, and visitors coming to campus.

Work rights: You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Pre-employment checks: Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement: At the University of Sydney, our shared values include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

How to apply: Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply. For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Nicole Cunningham, Recruitment Operations by email to nicole.cunningham@sydney.edu.au.