Enhance UNSW’s contributions to society
Lead the development of UNSW's engagement activities to make a positive and lasting impact.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor/Vice-President
Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) or Vice-President (VP) Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement is critical in leading UNSW’s efforts to make a positive and lasting impact on society, promoting equity and social justice, and driving engagement activities which enhance UNSW’s reputation as a key contributor to society through its research, teaching, and community engagement.
This role drives the development of strong partnerships and influential relationships with key organisations, communities, government, and alumni to advance the University’s profile and reputation as a sector leader in societal impact, supporting a University-wide agenda to drive effective change and engagement. It ensures the translation of research outcomes through effective communication, partnership development and profile raising. It also supports the generation of revenue through the development of effective philanthropic campaigns and engagement with key stakeholders.
The DVC/VP is a senior leadership position which reports to the Vice-Chancellor and President and leads the development and delivery of key strategies for the University. The role leads a large team and has accountability for functions including but not limited to social impact, staff and student equity, diversity and inclusion, communications, external engagement, government relations, philanthropy, alumni relations, and strategic partnerships.
Message from the Vice-Chancellor and President
UNSW Sydney is proud to be a world-class university and a rich source of expertise. It is home to incredible people who are driven to make the world a better place. We exist for the public good and play a major role in seeking innovative solutions to the many challenges we face today and in the future.
At UNSW, we are searching for a new Vice-President/Deputy Vice-Chancellor Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement – an exceptional leader who will play an important role in leading UNSW’s efforts to make a positive and lasting impact on society, by promoting equity and social justice and driving engagement activities which enhance the University’s reputation for excellence.
In this exciting new role, you will help to progress UNSW’s vision to improve lives globally, through innovative research, transformative education and commitment to a just society.
You will be responsible for leading the development and implementation of a Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement strategy, and fostering UNSW’s culture of equity, diversity and inclusion.
As a key member of the University’s leadership team, you will ensure societal impact, equity, and engagement are an integral part of organisational decision-making processes.
You will lead the University’s engagement, corporate marketing, and communications functions and elevate UNSW’s brand and reputation as a key contributor to society through its research, teaching, and community engagement.
The generation of revenue through the development of effective philanthropic campaigns and engagement with key stakeholders is a vital part of the role, as is the ability to drive strong partnerships with key organisations, communities, government, and alumni to advance the University’s profile as a sector leader in societal impact.
The successful delivery of UNSW’s Strategy 2025 is more critical now than ever, given the current challenges and opportunities facing society, and as Vice-President/Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement at UNSW, you will have an opportunity to make a difference.
UNSW Sydney is a wonderful and supportive place to work and collaborate. If you feel you have the passion and commitment to help further the university’s international position, we hope you’ll consider joining us.
Professor Attila Brungs
- Position description
- Terms
- How to apply
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The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) or Vice-President (VP) Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement is critical in leading UNSW’s efforts to make a positive and lasting impact on society, promoting equity and social justice, and driving engagement activities which enhance UNSW’s reputation as a key contributor to society through its research, teaching, and community engagement.
The DVC/VP is a senior leadership position which reports to the Vice-Chancellor and President and leads the development and delivery of key strategies for the University. The role leads a large team and has accountability for functions including but not limited to social impact, staff and student equity, diversity and inclusion, communications, external engagement, government relations, philanthropy, alumni relations, and strategic partnerships.
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Specific accountabilities for this role include:
Operate as a member of the University’s Leadership Team and contribute to decision-making to ensure the effective running of the University, ensuring societal impact, equity, and engagement are considered in organisational decision-making processes at every step.
Provide advice, strategic input and reporting to the Vice-Chancellor, Chair of UNSW’s Foundation Board and, where appropriate, to the University Council, on all aspects of societal impact, equity, engagement, and philanthropy.
Work collaboratively with UNSW’s Faculties and Divisions to support and foster engagement and collaboration, and to collectively drive a cohesive agenda for social impact, equity and engagement, aligned with local strategies, contributing to areas of excellence in research, teaching, and learning.
Lead the development and implementation of a Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement strategy aligned with UNSW’s vision and strategic goals.
Oversee the design and implementation of initiatives, programs, and partnerships that drive and enhance the University's contribution to society, including through research, teaching, and community engagement.
Develop and lead the University’s corporate brand strategy, tracking and benchmarking its performance to promote and advance the University’s profile and reputation locally, nationally, and globally.
Lead the University's strategy for and reporting against relevant frameworks for student and staff equity, inclusion, and diversity, ensuring that ambitious success metrics are met.
Identify opportunities to positively contribute to societal impact through frameworks such as the SDGs; develop, coordinate, and implement initiatives and programs and monitor and report on progress towards SDG targets. Providing regular updates to leadership and stakeholders and ensuring that it meets national and international standards and guidelines and UNSW’s ambitious strategy.
Develop and oversee the implementation of strategies to communicate the University’s distinctive strengths and achievements to targeted audiences including the media, State and Federal Government, industry partners, donors, alumni and influencers of future students.
Provide thought leadership in societal impact through the development of innovative communication and engagement strategies as a mechanism to advocate for UNSW’s societal impact and equity efforts.
Oversee the development of major events, including conferences, public lectures, and industry engagement activities to enhance the University’s reputation as a thought leader.
Lead the University’s engagement, corporate marketing, and communications functions to strengthen and deepen relationships with target audiences through social media, UNSW’s newsroom and website, digital and in-person events, and tactical marketing campaigns to elevate UNSW’s brand and reputation.
Develop strong partnerships and foster a culture of philanthropy across the broad UNSW community, building income in support of UNSW’s societal impact goals.
Act as a spokesperson on societal impact, equity and engagement and represent UNSW at functions, events, and to the media where required.
Collaborate with the Chief HR Officer to develop and deliver strategies to build a strong sense of community within UNSW, so that staff feel a strong connection with our social mission and impact as an organisation.
Provide leadership and day-to-day management of a high-performing team who operate within the framework of UNSW’s values to efficiently and effectively deliver in their roles.
Manage the Divisional budget and resources, and maximise opportunities for additional external funding, both government and philanthropic, to support and expand the scope of key strategic priorities and initiatives.
Other duties as required.
Align with and actively demonstrate the UNSW Values in Action: Our Behaviours and the UNSW Code of Conduct.
Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the University and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself or others.
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Skills
A relevant degree in a field such as social sciences, humanities, communications or business, and a postgraduate qualification in a related field.
Experience in a significant leadership role at a large university or other large and complex organisation, with a track record of leading change and successfully handling demanding projects.
A proven track record of developing and implementing successful strategies for societal impact, equity, and engagement, including measurement and reporting of their success, and of leading and managing high-performing teams.
A deep understanding of the social, political, economic, and environmental challenges facing communities in Australia and globally, and an awareness of the factors which shape these challenges. An understanding of the context and culture of the higher education sector and its role and social responsibility in working to address these factors.
Demonstrated expertise in communications, marketing, engagement, corporate communications and government relations.
Excellent leadership, interpersonal and people management skills and a collegial management style.
Outstanding communication, negotiation and influencing skills with an ability to build relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including government, relevant professions, regional, national and international networks, and the wider community that result in measurable benefits and outcomes for the University.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, to drive results in a complex and dynamic organisational setting.
An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training
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We will offer the successful candidate a salary package commensurate with the position responsibilities and the candidate’s skills, qualifications and experience.
All of our employees (excluding casuals) are entitled to receive 17% employer superannuation contributions. New employees are entitled to select their preferred superannuation fund or UniSuper, the industry fund for the Tertiary Education sector.
Our salary-sacrificing initiatives allow you to pay some or all of the offering before tax.
We also offer the option to salary package a fully maintained vehicle under a lease known as a novated lease. Car parking is available on campus with the ability to pay via fortnightly payroll salary sacrifice deductions.
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Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all required pre-employment or background checks. In addition, your ongoing employment is based upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements.
UNSW requires that all employees have eligible working rights within Australia. As one of Australia’s top employers, we understand that some candidates may benefit from support to relocate and join our university.
If you are offered a position at the university and are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident, the university may be able to assist with sponsorship arrangements. This includes obtaining the appropriate visa to allow you to work at UNSW.
The type of visa arrangement would depend on the length of your appointment at UNSW. Our external providers, Visa Lawyers Australia, will initially make that assessment of your application on behalf of UNSW and the UNSW Recruitment team will also guide you through this process.
We may also offer financial assistance to successful candidates who are required to move from their current residence in order to take an appointment at UNSW.
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UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn’t only what we do, it’s how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical and purposeful in all we do.
Taking this combined approach is what makes our work matter. It’s why we come to campus each day.
We make it as easy as possible for our staff to have a rich and balanced life at work and home. As part of our approach to flexible working, we have introduced greater flexibility across location, hours, full-time equivalents, schedules and job sharing.
In terms of other benefits, we offer various types of leave, lifelong learning, discounts, entitlements, health and wellbeing support. Further information can be found on Jobs@UNSW.
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As places of great inspiration and innovation, Australian universities are crucial intellectual environments where knowledge is created, communicated and challenged. In partnership with government and business, academic research and technologies help to develop vital industries. In addition, Australian universities provide students with the skills to compete in increasingly global workplaces and are ourselves major employers.
Universities are key to Australia’s economic success. In 2018, Australian universities contributed $41 billion to the economy and supported a total of 259,100 full-time jobs. In addition, 1,426,594 students studied at Australia’s 39 universities in 2018. Of these, 71 per cent (or 1,014,027) were domestic students and the remaining 29 per cent (or 412,567) were international students. In the same year, 325,171 students completed their degrees.[1]
When it comes to world university rankings, Australia has a strong, proven track record. Across all global ranking systems, criteria and fields of study, Australia ranks highly for quality of education, student satisfaction and global reputation. The latest ranking shows more than eight Australian universities are ranked in the top 200 universities and almost two-thirds of Australia’s 39 universities are in the top 500.[2] In addition, Australia consistently ranks highly in the Universitas 21 Report – in 2020, it ranked ninth.[3]
Australian university students pursue a wide range of academic disciplines, from health and education to engineering and information technology. While the majority of students study full-time, others balance a part-time load with family or work responsibilities and, in the current environment, many combine on-campus and online study for maximum flexibility.
International education is Australia’s fourth-largest export and the largest services export industry. In 2019, the industry generated $40.3 billion in export income. The higher education sector contributed around 70 per cent (or $27.8 billion) of international education export income in 2019.[4]
The 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) national report, which provides information of the quality of research undertaken by Australian universities, assessed that more than 90 per cent of Australian university research was performing at, or above world standards in 2018.[5]
UNSW is a founding member of the Group of Eight (Go8), a coalition of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities, and the prestigious Universitas 21 international network. In world rankings Go8 universities are consistently the highest ranked in Australia. Seven of the Go8’s members are in the world’s top 100 universities and all Go8 members are ranked in the world’s top 150 universities: in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, the Times Higher Education Rankings (THES) and the QS World University Rankings (QS).[6]
[1] 2020, Universities Australia 2020 Higher Education Facts and Figures
[2] 2020, Universities Australia 2020 Higher Education Facts and Figures
[3] 2020, Universities Australia 2020 Higher Education Facts and Figures
[4] 2020, Universities Australia 2020 Higher Education Facts and Figures
[5] 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) 2018 report, produced by the Australian Research Council (ARC
[6] Group of Eight, Australia -
Sydney was recently ranked the sixth best city in the world to live and work in by Global Finance magazine. With world-famous beaches and a thriving arts, music and food scene full of cultural communities to immerse yourself in, our coastal city is not just a destination, but a life experience.
Coastal living
It’s easy to see why the sunshine and coastline of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs beaches attract so many visitors, and UNSW’s Kensington campus sits right next door. It’s less than 30 minutes from campus to Bondi by car or bus, or just 10 minutes to Coogee.
If the beach isn’t your thing, we’re five minutes from beautiful Centennial Park or a short stroll to Randwick’s buzzing shops, cafés and restaurants.
Expand your network
Sydney’s the financial capital of Australia, and our international city is home to many global firms, offering countless opportunities to gain experience, meet people and build your networks.
A city for students
Sydney was ranked as the eighth best student city in the world in the QS Best Student Cities Index 2022. Our large and inclusive student community benefits from Sydney’s unique blend of outdoor and metropolitan lifestyles. Sydney offers a diverse range of opportunities for employment after graduation.
Something for everyone
There’s always something to do in Sydney, whether you’re flying solo or you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy. You can find the best swimming, snorkelling and surfing spots or watch a film at the local Randwick cinema – one of the cheapest in Sydney. Ride a bike around Centennial Park, stop for a picnic or enjoy an Aussie barbecue with new friends.
Sydney is also home to a number of incredible annual events, including Vivid Sydney, a festival of light, music and ideas; the New Year’s Eve Fireworks (possibly the most famous fireworks display in the world), and Taste of Sydney – an annual festival celebrating food and culture.
To submit your application, visit www.derwentsearch.com.au and search for the role title. Your application requires a resume and covering letter addressing your interest and suitability. For further enquiries, please contact Emma Alberici at forpurpose@derwentsearch.com.au or on 0419 683 660.
The deadline for applications is Sunday, 20 August 2023.
UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
