Manager, ResLife Operations (HEW 8)
Location: Callaghan Campus, Newcastle (with oversight across Callaghan and Ourimbah)
Employment Type: Continuing, Full Time
HEW Level: 8
The University of Newcastle is seeking an experienced and strategic Manager, ResLife Operations to lead the operational, financial, and admissions functions within Student Living.
This is a senior leadership role responsible for driving operational performance, ensuring service excellence, and supporting the University’s commitment to an outstanding residential student experience. You’ll oversee key business functions, lead a multidisciplinary team, and play a central role in shaping the future of Student Living.
Reporting to the General Manager, Student Living, the Manager, ResLife Operations leads the delivery of financial, admissions, systems, and operational services across Student Living.
This role combines strategic oversight with operational execution. You’ll be responsible for optimising business processes, leading system and process improvements, managing budgets and performance, and ensuring occupancy and service targets are achieved.
You’ll also provide expert advice to senior leadership on business operations, financial management, and growth opportunities within the student accommodation portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
You are a strategic and commercially astute leader with strong operational capability and the ability to balance big‑picture thinking with day‑to‑day delivery. You’re confident working in complex environments, leading teams, and influencing outcomes across diverse stakeholder groups.
To succeed in this role, you’ll bring:
The University of Newcastle is a global leader in equity and excellence, committed to delivering an exceptional student experience and creating a better future for our regions and communities. Student Living sits within the Student Central Portfolio and provides safe, inclusive, and development‑focused accommodation experiences that support students to thrive.
At the University of Newcastle, you’ll have the opportunity to lead a critical portfolio shaping the student living experience. You’ll work with a high‑performing team, contribute to strategic growth, and play a key role in delivering impactful outcomes for students and the University community.
Your application must include:
Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document. This document should not exceed 3 pages.
Additional Information
We value diversity and strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are equitable, inclusive, and barrier-free. If you require an alternative pathway to view the Position Description or to submit an application, please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au.
We also seek to provide a fair chance to all applicants by providing reasonable adjustments where required during the assessment and interview phases of the recruitment process.
Typically candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:
Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive.
As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.
The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University.
Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance – it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.
For specific position enquiries, please contact Jess Rokobaro, General Manager Student Living, on (02) 4921 5233 or via email at Jess.Rokobaro@newcastle.edu.au
Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au Please note, we do not accept email applications.
Closing date: Sunday 31 May, 2026 at 11.59pm AEST
We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you
We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do.
The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.
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