The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) is a member-based not-for-profit supporting over 8,600 surgeons and 1,300 trainees and Specialist International Medical Graduates across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. We advocate for excellence in surgical care, deliver world-class education and training, invest in research, and partner across the Asia-Pacific to strengthen local surgical services. Learn more at surgeons.org.
About the role In this key role, you will be responsible for ensuring future surgeons receive a high-quality, well-coordinated training experience. The role involves working closely with specialty training boards, hospitals, Fellows and trainees to build strong partnerships and support consistent, effective program delivery. You will provide strategic and operational leadership across the SET program, as well as related training and rural initiatives. You will ensure these programs align with RACS’ strategic direction and continue to meet the evolving needs of the surgical profession. A central part of the role is building trusted relationships across a complex network of stakeholders and supporting shared ownership of training outcomes. You will: • Lead the delivery of the SET program and related initiatives, ensuring they are well-run, consistent and aligned with organisational priorities • Work closely with specialty training boards, committees, hospitals and trainees to support a coordinated training experience • Build and maintain strong, respectful relationships across the training network, including managing complex or sensitive discussions where needed • Identify and implement improvements to processes, systems and service delivery • Oversee governance frameworks, ensuring policies and procedures are clear, consistent and compliant • Monitor program performance and use data and feedback to inform improvements • Manage budgets, resources and risks with a focus on sustainability and effective use of funding • Contribute to broader planning and decision-making as part of the senior leadership team This position is full time ongoing and based in our Melbourne office. Download Position Description About the team You will be part of the Pathways to Fellowship portfolio and report to the Executive General Manager, Education Pathways. The role leads a team and works closely with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. Working in partnership with specialty societies, training boards and accredited hospitals to deliver surgical education and training, the team supports relationships to ensure training programs are practical, consistent and responsive to the needs of trainees and the profession. About you You are an experienced leader who understands how to manage complex education or training programs and work effectively with a broad range of stakeholders. You build strong relationships, communicate clearly and approach challenges with sound judgement and a practical mindset. You will bring: • Relevant tertiary qualifications and/or significant experience in education, training or program management, ideally in the health sector • Experience leading teams and delivering programs in complex environments • Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build trust and work collaboratively with boards, committees and professional groups • Experience managing projects, budgets and program performance • Confidence working with policy, governance and compliance frameworks • Well-developed communication skills, including preparing reports and briefings on complex matters • A focus on continuous improvement and the ability to lead change in a considered way • A commitment to inclusion, cultural safety and respectful engagement
Your experience with us We’re committed to creating a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and able to do their best work. We invest in your wellbeing, professional growth and work life balance. Our benefits reflect our dedication to a positive, safe and inclusive culture. Key benefits include: • Competitive remuneration + salary packaging up to $15,900 each FBT year and novated car leasing. • Hybrid working arrangements that support flexibility + starter equipment allowance • Generous leave options including volunteer leave, paid parental leave and the ability to purchase up to two weeks of additional leave • Access to a wellbeing app and annual reimbursement to support your physical and mental wellbeing • Gifted leave over the Christmas/New Year period • Support for you and your family including counselling, legal advice, career coaching, financial counselling, and more. Read more about what we offer you here. How to apply Click “Apply” to begin your application. We encourage you to include both your resume and a cover letter. In your cover letter, please highlight your experience that aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the position description. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so we encourage you to submit yours as soon as possible. If you have any questions, you’re welcome to contact us at careers@surgeons.org. Please note that we are unable to accept applications via email. You will be informed of the outcome of your application in due course. Everyone is welcome We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. We are committed to supporting diversity and inclusion in our workforce. RACS recognises the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people as the traditional landowners of Australia and Māori as the tangatawhenua (people of the land) of Aotearoa New Zealand. We are committed to creating employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and Māori and building an environment that is inclusive, culturally safe and appropriate.
