Canberra

The Australian National University (ANU) is unique among Australian universities, established under Commonwealth legislation as a resource for the whole nation. Our responsibilities to contribute to Australian public policy, research and higher education, have been particularly significant through the challenges of the past year.

Our researchers are world-leaders, who use their expertise to develop solutions to significant national and global challenges, providing advice and evidence to our colleagues in the political and policy community. The University also engages directly with government on a wide range of issues as a stakeholder and partner, and benefits from the exceptional leadership and public profile of our Chancellor, the Hon. Julie Bishop, and our Nobel Laureate Vice-Chancellor, Professor Brian P. Schmidt AC.

As we seek to renew and rejuvenate our public policy and government relations work, ANU plans to appoint a Director, Commonwealth and Government Relations to lead the new Office of Commonwealth and Government Relations. Working closely with the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, senior staff and researchers, the Director will have broad strategic responsibilities for defining and delivering an enhanced ANU relationship with government and policymakers.

The successful candidate will be an outstanding strategic thinker with the capacity to build and nurture relationships. They will have extensive experience of the political environment in Canberra, across the Australian Public Service, the Parliament and federal politics, or the ACT Government, and be able to use that experience effectively to help ANU achieve its objectives. They will be a skilled leader, able to win the trust of senior academics and public servants, and an excellent communicator, able to convey complex ideas authentically. Above all, they will be a collaborative and trusted partner, both within the University and among our stakeholders.

For further information and a copy of the candidate information booklet, contact Kent Vidler, Deputy Manager, ANU Executive Search on +61 408 421 119 or executivesearch@anu.edu.au

Applications Close: Sunday, 30 May 2021

ANU values diversity and inclusion and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to those of all backgrounds and identities. For more information about staff equity at ANU, visit https://services.anu.edu.au/human-resources/respect-inclusion

The successful candidate will be required to undergo a background check during the recruitment process. An offer of employment is conditional on satisfactory results.