Senior Executive Governance Specialist

• Full time, fixed term till 31 March 2028

• Play a pivotal role supporting executive leadership and high‑level decision‑making

• HE0 9: $146,197 - $154,260 plus 17% Superannuation

About the opportunity

As part of the University’s Governance function, the Senior Executive Governance Specialist plays a critical role in supporting the University Executive and key governance committees at the highest levels of the organisation. Reporting to the Chief Governance Officer, you’ll provide high‑level governance, strategic and administrative support to senior leadership, contributing to the delivery of organisational priorities.

Operating with a high degree of autonomy, you’ll manage complex governance processes, coordinate executive‑level meetings and provide trusted advice in a highly visible and senior stakeholder environment. You’ll work closely with key decision‑makers, where discretion, sound judgement and attention to detail are essential, ensuring governance frameworks and decision‑making processes run smoothly and effectively.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic governance advice and support to the University Executive and senior stakeholders

• Coordinate and manage executive and committee meetings, including agendas, papers and minutes

• Prepare high‑quality briefings, reports and governance materials for senior leadership

• Track and report on actions arising from executive and committee meetings to ensure timely completion

• Develop and implement communication strategies to support governance processes and stakeholder engagement

• Undertake research and provide policy advice on complex governance matters

• Build and maintain strong relationships with executive stakeholders, committee members and key partners

About you

• Extensive experience supporting senior executives and high‑level committees in a governance environment

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to exercise initiative and sound judgement

• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills, with proven ability to liaise and negotiate across all levels

• Demonstrated experience in analysing complex reports and contributing to policy development

• Proven ability to manage competing priorities and deliver to tight deadlines in high‑pressure environments

• High level of professional judgement, discretion and attention to detail in handling sensitive information

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement 

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. 

We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion. 

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. 

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or support filling out this application, please contact Kristy Fairweather, Recruitment Operations, by email to kristy.fairweather@sydney.edu.au

© The University of Sydney

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Click to view the Position Description for this role.

Applications Close

Sunday 24 May 2026 11:59 PM