Senior Advisor, Strategic Projects at Victoria University Minimal

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

28 Jul, 26

Salary

138314.0

Posted On

29 Apr, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Strategic planning, Project management, Executive support, Stakeholder engagement, Relationship management, Analytical skills, Problem-solving, Communication, Negotiation, Cross-cultural capability, Governance, Operational oversight, Influence, Strategic advisory

Industry

Higher Education

Description

Victoria University is seeking an experienced and proactive Senior Advisor, Strategic Projects (Tertiary Education) to provide high-level strategic project and executive support to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer (SDVC & CAO). This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of the University’s executive operations, contributing directly to the delivery of Victoria University’s Strategic Plan 2022–2030 and the ongoing transformation of tertiary education (TAFE and Higher Education). About VU: At VU, we aim to be one of the leading impact universities in the world. VU is an impact‑driven university committed to equity, excellence and opportunity. Based in Melbourne’s west and connected globally, we put students first through the VU Block Model®, dual‑sector pathways and strong industry partnerships. We are a values‑led, inclusive workplace where diverse talent is supported to make a real difference. About the Team: The Executive Services team in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor provides trusted, high-level strategic, advisory and operational support to the University’s senior leadership, enabling effective decision‑making, coordination and delivery of whole‑of‑university priorities. About the Role: The Senior Advisor, Strategic Projects (Tertiary Education) supports strategy development, planning and delivery of complex, high-impact initiatives across the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer portfolio, while coordinating day-to-day operations of the SDVC’s Office, building trusted relationships across the University, and ensuring alignment between portfolio priorities and whole-of-university strategy as a member of the Executive Services team in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor. Position Key Duties: Examples of duties may include: * Strategy and Project Delivery * Provide high-level support to the scoping, planning and implementation of strategic projects and initiatives aligned with the Tertiary Education portfolio. * Monitor progress, risks and interdependencies to support effective delivery of portfolio priorities. * Strategic and Executive Support * Deliver high-quality and timely executive, project and advisory support on complex strategic and operational matters. * Support the coordination and governance of portfolio activities. * Stakeholder Engagement * Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships across the University, including executive management and senior leaders. * Liaise with external stakeholders, including government, university partners, regional groups and consultants as required. * Operations and Portfolio Oversight * Provide oversight and coordination of the day-to-day operations of the SDVC & CAO’s Office. * Support effective systems, processes and ways of working within the portfolio. * Values and Impact * Actively model and embed the VU Values: Always welcoming; Always ethical; Always sharing the future; Always together. * Support sustainable, responsible and people-centred decision-making aligned with the University’s social, environmental and financial commitments. Position Details * Classification: HEP 9 * Salary: $132,942 - $138,314 plus 17% Super * Employment Type: Fixed Term – 2 Years * Hours per Week: 36.75 * Location: Footscray Park Campus For a detailed overview of the role’s duties and responsibilities, please refer to the Position Description – Senior Advisor Strategic Projects [https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?src=https://webresources.vu.edu.au/hr/employment/pdf/2026/401_17832.docx&wdOrigin=BROWSELINK] About You: You are a highly capable strategic advisor who thrives in complex, executive environments and brings sound judgement, strong initiative and exceptional relationship management skills. You will demonstrate: * A proven track record in strategic project delivery within a complex organisation and/or relevant postgraduate qualifications. * Experience in strategic and operational planning, with a commitment to continuous improvement. * Exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across senior levels. * Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including strong interpersonal, negotiation and cross-cultural capability. * Well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically, adapt quickly and manage ambiguity. * Demonstrated capacity to manage competing priorities, high workloads and unexpected issues while delivering outcomes to tight timeframes. The University is a Child Safe organisation. You will be required to hold a current Employee - Working with Children Check (WWCC) or be willing to obtain one prior to commencing employment.  How to Apply To submit your application please click on the Apply button. Applications must be submitted as a single document comprising: * A cover letter * Your curriculum vitae/resume * Your responses addressing all selection criteria located in the position description * Evidence of applicable qualifications, licences and registration Applications will close Sunday 17 May 2026 at 11:59pm. This advert may close earlier should a suitable candidate be identified. Early applications are strongly encouraged. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This role requires for applicants to have full and permanent working rights in Australia. Why Join VU: VU provides competitive salaries, excellent superannuation, and a variety of benefits. University fosters an environment where staff can excel, achieve their goals, and develop their careers. With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and family-friendly policies, VU supports both professional and personal well-being. For more information, please visit our Careers at VU Webpage [https://www.vu.edu.au/about-vu/strategy-leadership-governance/jobs-at-vu] Our Commitment: Victoria University is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially responsible community. We honour our deep diversity by respecting First Nations perspectives and embedding sustainable approaches to Protecting Country, while championing progressive inclusivity for all—embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and racially marginalised communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people of all ages and socio‑economic backgrounds. As a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality [https://www.vu.edu.au/about-vu/our-uni/equality-inclusion-belonging/gender-equity/wgea-statement], we strive to create a place where everyone feels they belong, and we ensure a positive, barrier‑free recruitment experience by providing adjustments and accessible formats upon request at  inclusivecareers@vu.edu.au [inclusivecareers@vu.edu.au] or (03) 9919 5999.

Responsibilities

The Senior Advisor provides high-level strategic, advisory, and operational support to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer. They are responsible for scoping, planning, and implementing complex strategic projects while coordinating the day-to-day operations of the executive office.