Director Of Academics

Help students thrive

At Mannix, supporting student success isn't a slogan—it's the job. We're seeking a 
Director of Academics & Careers
 to champion learning, guide career development, and enrich the intellectual life of our residential community.

At universities, the size can sometimes create a gap between staff and students. At Mannix, you'll see the direct and personal impact of your work every day—whether that's helping a student unlock their study strategies, connecting them with an inspiring mentor or volunteering opportunities, or celebrating their achievements at College events.

This role is more than programs. It's about building confidence, sparking ambition and walking alongside young adults as they navigate university life.

The opportunity

Reporting to the Dean & Vice Principal, the 
Director of Academics & Careers
 is responsible for:

Academic Support & Intellectual Engagement

• Lead the Academic Support Program (subject specialists, peer learning, structured study support).
• Host the weekly StudyFest program and associated workshops.
• Provide one-on-one academic advice (study planning, assessment strategies, navigating university processes).
• Monitor student performance, identify at-risk students, and implement proactive support plans.
• Build strong connections with Monash services (e.g., Academic Skills, Counselling, Disability Support).
• Oversee the Academic Centre and learning spaces.
• Coordinate academic awards and deliver the Academic Awards Dinner.
• Curate and deliver the annual Newman Lecture to enrich the College's intellectual life.

Career Development & Alumni Engagement

• Design and deliver the Careers Program: employability workshops, volunteering pathways, and professional development.
• Provide individual career advice (résumés, cover letters, LinkedIn, interview prep).
• Manage the alumni mentoring program.
• Recruit guest speakers, alumni panels, and professionals.
• Source internships, work experience, and networking opportunities.
• Connect residents with Monash leadership and industry programs (e.g., Ancora Imparo, Global Immersion Guarantee).

Volunteering & Community Service

• Promote volunteering as a core part of the Mannix experience.
• Coordinate the Volunteering Program with approved partners.
• Track participation and recognise contributions (awards, certificates, publications).
• Maintain strong partner relationships for safe, meaningful experiences.

Leadership & Development

• Coordinate workshops on study skills, employability, leadership, volunteering, and scholarship applications.
• Contribute to Student Leader Training.
• Mentor student leaders and foster resilience, self-efficacy, and growth.

Reporting & Evaluation

• Maintain accurate academic and career records.
• Provide regular reports to the Principal on outcomes and emerging trends.
• Analyse data to evaluate impact and drive continuous improvement.

Community & After-Hours Connections

• Be a visible, approachable presence in daily College life.
• Attend and support major events (Welcome Week, Formal Dinners, Open Day).
• Connect with our community after-hours in line with College rhythms, including Tuesday evenings (StudyFest) and every second Wednesday (Formal Dinners) during the semester.

Compliance & Governance

• Align programs with College policies.
• Contribute to policy reviews and compliance documentation.
• Comply with all WHS and HR requirements.

About you (key selection criteria)

We are seeking an experienced professional who brings both expertise and heart to this role. The preferred candidate will have:

1. Qualifications & Experience -
Tertiary qualification with relevant professional experience, or an equivalent combination of experience and training. Demonstrated experience working directly with university students — particularly in academic advising, learning support, careers, or student development — will be highly regarded.

2. Program Development & Evaluation
 - Proven ability to design, deliver, and evaluate initiatives that strengthen academic success, career readiness, and/or personal growth. Experience using evidence and feedback to refine and continuously improve programs.

3. Commitment to Students
 - A demonstrated passion for supporting young adults through the challenges of university life. Experience in student-facing roles within higher education, especially those involving academic, wellbeing, or career support, will be highly favourable.

4. Relationships & Mentoring
 - Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust, provide guidance, and mentor young adults. Experience coaching student leaders, facilitating peer-learning programs, or running mentoring initiatives will be highly regarded.

5. Project & Event Management
 - Experience planning and delivering projects or events involving multiple stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and achieve quality outcomes within budget and resource constraints.

6. Communication & Facilitation
 - Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to teach, present, and facilitate workshops for diverse audiences. Demonstrated ability to adapt communication style to engage students, staff, alumni, and external partners.

7. Digital & Technical Competence
 - Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite (particularly Excel/Sheets), with the capacity to quickly learn and adapt to institutional systems and databases. Experience with student management software will be well regarded.

8. Knowledge of Universities & Student Services
 - An informed understanding of university structures, policies, and student support services. Ability to navigate these systems effectively and connect students with appropriate services and opportunities.

About Mannix College

Mannix is a Catholic residential college affiliated with Monash University, located on Wellington Road, Clayton. We provide catered accommodation, pastoral care, academic support, leadership development and community engagement for 
300+
 residents (undergraduate and postgraduate).

We're committed to a 
safe, respectful and inclusive
 community and welcome staff and students from diverse backgrounds. As part of the Archdiocese of Melbourne, Mannix embodies its mission at Monash.

Learn more:

What we offer

• Salary
   commensurate with experience
• Weekday lunch
   in the Dining Room (when in operation) and 
  free on-site parking
• A values-driven workplace where your work has a visible impact on student lives

Pre-employment requirements (reimbursed if needed):
 National Police Check, Working with Children Check, First Aid Level 2, and Mental Health First Aid.

Please note:
Given the rhythms of College life, the role involves some evening work to support events and program delivery. In particular, weekly Tuesday evening commitments during the semester are required to lead the College's flagship study support program, StudyFest. In addition, the Director is expected to attend the College's fortnightly Wednesday Formal Dinners, which are central to our community and academic culture. Later start times and flexible scheduling are built into the role to balance these evening commitments.

How to apply

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Michelle McLeod, Human Resources Business Partner (Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri) on or via ext-

Email your PDF application 
by 14 October 2025
 to 
Michelle McLeod
, HR Business Partner (Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri) at ext- Please include:

1. Resume/CV
    (max 3 pages)
2. Cover letter
    addressing the 
   eight Key Selection Criteria
    (each under its own heading, max 4 pages).

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an 
in-person interview at Mannix College
.