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:
Join Victoria University’s dynamic People and Culture portfolio, where innovation meets impact. As part of a strategic function dedicated to shaping workforce capability, leadership, and culture, you will collaborate closely with senior leaders and the Vice-Chancellor’s Group to drive transformative people initiatives that align with VU’s ambitious vision. This team is passionate about fostering an inclusive, high-performing environment that supports both staff and student success.
You will lead a high-performing team focused on delivering integrated, evidence-based organisational development strategies that enhance leadership, talent management, and workplace culture. Together, you will champion initiatives that promote gender equality, staff engagement, and continuous capability uplift, ensuring VU remains a thriving place to study and work.
About The Role:
As the Director of Organisational Development, you will play a pivotal role in translating Victoria University’s strategic priorities into practical, scalable initiatives that strengthen organisational performance and student outcomes. Reporting to the Chief People Officer, you will lead the design and delivery of leadership development frameworks, talent management strategies, and culture enhancement programs across academic and professional staff. Your expertise will guide the university in embedding inclusive leadership, accountability, and a values-aligned culture, while ensuring compliance with governance and regulatory requirements.
Position Key Duties:
- Lead the development and implementation of an integrated organisational development strategy aligned with VU’s strategic goals.
- Provide expert, evidence-based advice to senior leaders on leadership, culture, workforce capability, and organisational performance.
- Design and deliver contemporary leadership development programs and talent management initiatives for diverse workforce cohorts.
- Drive staff engagement efforts, translating survey insights into targeted actions that enhance culture, trust, and leadership effectiveness.
- Co-lead institutional gender equality initiatives and promote safe, respectful workplace environments.
- Oversee performance and development frameworks that foster accountability and capability growth.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with Academic, Teaching and Professional colleagues along with external stakeholders and bodies to support enterprise-wide people initiatives.
- Lead and inspire a collaborative, high-performing team to deliver impactful organisational development programs.
Position Details:
- Classification: SSC
- Salary: Attractive renumeration package on offer
- Employment Type: Full Time – Ongoing
- Hours per Week: 36.75/1 FTE
- Location: Footscray Park Campus – 3 days on-site
For a detailed overview of the role’s duties and responsibilities, please refer to the Position Description - Director Organisational Development
About You:
- Proven experience leading culture, talent, and capability strategies in complex organisations.
- Strong ability to influence senior leaders and drive organisation-wide people initiatives.
- Expertise in designing leadership development frameworks and performance management systems.
- Demonstrated success in advancing gender equality and fostering inclusive, respectful workplace cultures.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement skills with a track record of building trusted partnerships.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to translate priorities into practical, scalable outcomes.
The University is a Child Safe organisation. You will be required to hold a current 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 Friday 3 July at 5pm . 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. The 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
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, 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 [email protected] or (03) 9919 5999.
