Chief Operating Officer

Recognised globally for its leadership and excellence in design, technology and enterprise formation, RMIT University serves and engages its community through delivering education, training and research that contribute to a just and sustainable world.
RMIT is a global institution offering diverse programs across technology, design, and enterprise to more than 90,000 students across three Melbourne campuses, two in Vietnam, and one in Spain. With a commitment to industry collaboration and a focus on innovation, research, and teaching, RMIT has achieved notable rankings, including 1st in THE Impact Rankings for reducing inequality.  

At RMIT we respect the unique culture and contribution that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people bring to our communities. ​​We place a strong emphasis on reconciliation with Indigenous communities and recognise the fundamental significance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions, heritage, knowledges and perspectives to and within the University. 

​​Recognised for diversity and inclusion, RMIT holds awards such as Athena SWAN membership, Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, and Gold Employer status for LGBTIQ inclusion. 

Reporting to the Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alec Cameron, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) will provide inspiring leadership, oversight and strategic direction across a broad portfolio that includes Data & Analytics, Finance & Governance, Enterprise Projects and Business Performance, Information and Technology Services (ITS), Governance and Legal, Office of the Chief Operating Officer (OCOO), People (HR) and Property Services Group (PSG). 

The Operations Portfolio, comprising of over 800 staff, is an enabler for an integrated, enterprise-wide delivery for best practice student and staff experiences. 

The Portfolio houses significant drivers and delivery components across the staff and student journeys and enables the overall experience for both groups. The Portfolio is integral in bringing the RMIT strategy to life, across the globe. Each of these functions supports the global operations of the University both directly as well as through its controlled entities. 

The COO will continue to elevate the maturity of operational functions as strategic partners to the University and build effective partnerships with executive stakeholders to better understand their needs and priorities, as we strive to deliver service excellence and ensure alignment with core activities of the University. 

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success in leading and engaging large teams through a period of significant change and transformation. A seasoned executive with excellent capacity to lead with heart and oversee the full suite of organisational functions in the portfolio, you will have exceptional influencing and relationship building skills and the ability to partner with senior executives and the Council/Board. An understanding of the challenges facing the education sector and the importance of research, innovation and education is highly desirable. 

Odgers Berndtson is assisting RMIT University with this appointment. More information on the role can be found at www.odgers.com/91532    

For a confidential conversation, please contact Angela Bull on +61 432842508 or [email protected] and Phillipa Whitehouse on +61 438 678 833 or [email protected]   

The closing date for applications is Monday 10 June 2024.  

Please do not apply for this position online via the University’s Career page.  

Applications Close:
10 June 2024 11.59 pm

RMIT is an equal opportunity employer committed to  being  a child safe organisation. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability and age. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community and we strongly encourage applications from the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Isla n der community.  

At RMIT, we are committed to supporting adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, as well as during employment. We actively support and encourage people with disability to apply to RMIT. To discuss adjustment requirements, please contact Kassie (Senior Talent Acquisition Advisor), via [email protected] or visit our Careers page for more contact information - https://www.rmit.edu.au/careers .

We are a Circle Back Initiative Employer – we commit to respond to every applicant.