Executive Dean First Year College

About the Organisation

Victoria University (VU) is a bold and progressive institution with a proud heritage dating back to 1916. Today, VU is a world-class, impact-driven university – measuring success by the difference we make in our communities and industries.

VU is renowned for pioneering innovations such as the Australian-first VU Block Model and VU First Year College and is recognised as a digital leader in education and a valued industry collaborator. Our transformation has led to record student enrolments and national leadership in equity participation and student success.

With campuses in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, and our Flipped Campus model placing industry partners on every site, VU continues to exceed ambitious partnership goals. We rank #7 globally in sport science (Shanghai Ranking) and are proudly in the Top 100 Young Universities (Times Higher Education).

VU offers practical, career-focused learning across diverse disciplines, supported by modern campuses and a vibrant, inclusive student community. We are committed to being a thriving place to study and work and celebrate our position as one of Australia's most culturally and socially diverse universities – with our international students playing a vital role in enriching the learning experience.

About the Role

Reporting to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer, the Executive Dean, First Year College , provides strategic leadership to ensure Victoria University remains a first-choice institution for students, staff, and industry partners. This role is pivotal in delivering the innovative VU Block Model through the First Year College, which supports student engagement, retention, and successful transition into university life.

The Executive Dean leads the development and implementation of the College's operational plan, fosters academic excellence, and promotes a collaborative and inclusive environment. Key responsibilities include overseeing academic programs, research initiatives, and community partnerships; managing budgets and resources; and representing the College across internal and external forums.

A strong focus is placed on interdisciplinary collaboration and integration across education, research, and industry engagement. The role leads student retention initiatives and also supports pedagogical innovation and technology-enhanced learning through the VU Block Model Academy, while ensuring course quality, academic integrity, and student belonging and wellbeing. This leadership position is critical to advancing VU's reputation and impact – nationally and globally – through sustainable, industry-forward educational practices.

About You

You are a visionary academic leader with a distinguished record of achievement and a PhD in a relevant field. Internationally recognised for your contributions to higher education, you bring senior executive experience in academic leadership and management, supported by a deep understanding of national and global tertiary education trends, government policy, and funding frameworks.

Your thought leadership – particularly in transition pedagogy and innovative teaching methods – will enhance the first-year student experience and further advance the VU Block Model. You are committed to fostering a values-based, inclusive, and collaborative culture, and you lead with integrity, empathy, and strategic foresight.

You bring strong commercial acumen, with a proven ability to drive student growth, program development, and secure research funding. Your leadership is marked by excellence in financial, portfolio, and change management, as well as a dedication to quality assurance and occupational health and safety. With exceptional communication skills and a passion for equity, diversity, and inclusion, you will inspire meaningful engagement across disciplines and make a lasting impact on VU's education and scholarship.

How to Apply:

Your application should include a current CV, a cover letter or statement detailing your vision for the role, the qualities you would bring as Executive Dean of the First Year College, and a response to the selection criteria outlined in the position description.

T o obtain a copy of the position description please click: HERE

Applications close at 11:59pm AEDT (Melbourne) on Monday, 6 October 2025 .

Location

This role is primarily based at our Footscray Park campus, with travel across other VU campuses as required.

What We Offer

For information on our employee benefits, flexible working, discounts in private health insurance, gym memberships and salary packaging please visit .

Our Commitment to Protecting Country

Victoria University honours its deep diversity as a foundation for collaboration and social progress. We will demonstrate sensitivity in respecting First Nation perspectives. We will ensure that we respect our Indigenous voices and commit to sustainable Protecting Country. We will take leadership responsibility, in all that we do, to improve the health and wellbeing of our local and global communities, and the planet that we share.

Our Commitment to Progressive Inclusivity

Victoria University celebrates diversity and is committed to progressive inclusivity as a strategic priority. We strive to build a workforce that reflects our community by attracting and empowering people from all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and racially marginalised groups, LGBTQIA+ communities, and individuals of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds.

We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our community and foster innovation, inclusion, and belonging. VU is dedicated to providing a barrier-free recruitment experience. For access requirements or adjustments, contact or call