Director University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health UONDRH

About the University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Its vision is to be a worldleading University creating a better future for its regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are its values of excellence equity engagement and sustainability.

About the Department

The Department of Rural Health delivers a number of programs aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of regional rural and Indigenous communities within the New England Northwest Slopes and Plains and areas of the Hunter Valley and New England Rivers regions.

The Department has received continuous Federal funding since its establishment twentyfive years ago. It is a genuine priority for the University and the College of Health Medicine and Wellbeing as it has increased access and equity for regional students and has ultimately had a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of the associated communities.

The Role

In June 2024 The Hon. Mark Butler MP Minister for Health and Aged Care announced that Professor Jenny May AM had been appointed Australias National Rural Health CommissionerJenny commenced as Commissioner in January thus creating this exciting opportunity for somebody new.

This significant position will be responsible for the leadership and management of the Department including promoting a clear vision and strategic direction. Collaboration and engagement with key stakeholderswithin the College and broader University Local Health Districts and other external organisations will play a significant part in the joint development of education and research programs.

Reporting directly to the Pro Vice Chancellor College of Health Medicine and Wellbeing the Director will provide academic leadership and foster excellence in teaching research and professional activities. The incumbent will be expected to maintain a visible presence across the Departments seven locationsandcould be based either in Tamworth or Taree.

The Person

You will have:

• PhD or equivalent higher degree qualification in an area within a health discipline.
• Demonstrated understanding of medical workforce needs and future priorities including commitment to rural and regional education and workforce development.
• Demonstrated excellence and experience in rural health education and training and/or research and experience in securing research funding and dissemination of research findings.
• Experience in Indigenous health education and training and/or research.
• Demonstrated commitment to improving access for rural remote and indigenous Australians to quality health services.
• Sound understanding of government policy pertaining to rural health education and training and research.
• A record of multidisciplinary collaborative relationships within academic health and with strategic partners in rural health.
• Demonstrated management and strategic planning ability including the capacity to manage staff financial and physical resources work effectively with relevant professional government and industry organisations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of workplace obligations and experience in leading and cultivating workplace practices and behaviours that promote support and maintain a safe healthy equitable diverse and respectful workplace including responding appropriately to adverse accidents incidents behaviours issues reports and the like.

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.

Next Steps

An executive search is being undertaken by Ccentric on behalf of the University of Newcastle.

For a confidential conversation to receive a candidate information pack and to apply please contact:

Pam Lubrainschik at oror

Kim Gillespie at

Your application must include:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity
• A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed in the position description
• Your resume

Closing date: 18th April 2025