Executive Assistant to the CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education Futures)

Job Description

Executive Assistant to the CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education Futures)

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• UNSW College, subsidiary of UNSW Sydney — a registered Higher Education Provider
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• Kensington campus | 15 minutes by light rail to Central Station
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• Full-time ongoing | Work from home flexibility available
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• Highly competitive remuneration package
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UNSW College is a values-based organisation committed to student success and opening worlds of possibility through learning. We are seeking an exceptional Executive Assistant to become the trusted partner to our CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education Futures).

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This is a rare opportunity to work at the highest levels of leadership, supporting a senior executive whose portfolio spans higher education, government engagement, international partnerships and strategic growth.

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More than a traditional EA role, this position requires sound judgement, political acumen, discretion and the ability to build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders across the education sector, government and industry.

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About the role

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You will ensure the CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor is well prepared, strategically supported and focused on highest-impact priorities. You will act as a key coordination point across the organisation and externally — managing complex executive operations while supporting governance, stakeholder engagement and executive decision-making.

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Key responsibilities

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• Managing the CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor's complex diary, priorities, travel and executive commitments
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• Acting as a trusted gatekeeper, aligning the CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor's time to strategic priorities
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• Preparing and coordinating high-quality briefings, correspondence, presentations and meeting materials
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• Building strong relationships with senior stakeholders across UNSW, government, industry and partner organisations
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• Providing governance and secretariat support for Board, Executive and leadership forums, including agendas, papers, minutes and action tracking
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• Coordinating domestic and international travel, events, high-profile stakeholder visits and executive delegations
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• Managing confidential information and sensitive matters with professionalism and discretion
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• Overseeing financial administration, expenses and executive office processes
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About you

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You are an experienced Executive Assistant who thrives in a fast‐paced environment and enjoys operating at the centre of strategic decision‐making.

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You will bring

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• Extensive experience supporting C-suite executives, Vice-Chancellors, CEOs or senior leaders at Board level
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• Outstanding organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities
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• Strong stakeholder engagement, influencing and relationship management skills
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• Experience supporting governance processes, including Board papers, agendas, minutes and action tracking
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• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
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• High levels of professionalism, discretion and emotional intelligence
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• Advanced Microsoft 365 skills and confidence with digital collaboration and productivity tools
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• Experience within higher education, government, a regulated industry or a large complex organisation
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• Exposure to Board governance, ministerial engagement or international stakeholder environments
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About our CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor

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At the helm of UNSW College is CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor Sarah Lightfoot, a leader who is a passionate advocate for the transformative power of education. With an expansive career spanning education, marketing, sales and business transformation, Sarah combines strategic vision with an authentic and approachable leadership style.

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Sarah is deeply invested in both people and purpose. She believes the best ideas come from collaboration and curiosity, and has built a culture where innovation, connection and student impact sit at the heart of everything the organisation does.

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What we offer

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• Prime location — modern, open-plan offices in the heart of Kensington with abundant natural light, just 15 minutes by tram from Central Station
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• End-of-year shutdown — additional paid leave over the December/January period (conditions apply)
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• Professional development — 50% tuition fee discount at UNSW Sydney, plus financial assistance of up to 50% for study relevant to your role (conditions apply)
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• Fitness Passport — heavily discounted gym and fitness centre memberships
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• Celebrations and recognition — regular events throughout the year marking milestones, achievements and team successes
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Applications close 24 June 2026. Shortlisting may commence prior to the closing date.