Description:
Creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally, and globally, James Cook University (JCU) is looking to appoint a Director, FNQ Connect within the Cairns Institute, Division of Research.
This position is offered on a Full time, fixed term basis to May 2027 and is based at our Cairns Nguma-bada campus.
ACAD Level E the salary is $198,653 + up to 17% employer superannuation contributions.
ABOUT THE DIVISION OF RESEARCH
The Research Division plays a pivotal role in the University by developing and implementing research strategy and policy, identifying and fostering research strength, delivering research services including grants, ethics and commercialisation, managing research infrastructure and promoting and coordinating collaboration with governments, industry, publicly funded research agencies and other universities.
ABOUT FNQ CONNECT
FNQ Connect was created in response to a groundswell of interest and concern from FNQ people with lived experience of disability, their families and communities, together with stakeholders responsible for supporting them. They expressed an urgent need for service reform: current supply of services is outweighed by needs and is well below national standards; inaccuracies in national data conceal these inequities.
WHAT YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH IN THE ROLE
As the primary spokesperson for FNQ Connect in the broader community, the Director will drive the collective impact approach, articulating and maintain the shared vision, common agenda, mutually reinforcing activities and continuous communication. Providing strategic leadership and direction, coordinate and facilitate the cross-sector leadership table, ensuring regular, purposeful meetings that advance strategic objectives through collaborative decision-making.
Cultivating key partnerships to build and sustain strong collaborative relationships with stakeholders including people with disabilities, their families/carers, health, disability and rehabilitation service providers, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled organisations, government, non-government and private agencies, and broader community. Promoting culturally safe and responsive engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
- A PhD or equivalent advanced education, or substantial leadership experience within health, disability, or community development sectors.
- In-depth understanding of the disability services sector, NDIS, and relevant policy frameworks.
- Demonstrated experience leading complex, large scale, multi-stakeholder initiatives in health, disability, or community services within a regional, rural or remote setting.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement skills and adaptive leadership skills.
- Demonstrated experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and demonstrated commitment to culturally responsive and safe practices.
- A collaborative, innovative mindset and strong commitment to social justice and inclusion.
WHY JCU?
JCU offers a culturally diverse working environment with opportunities for professional and personal growth. Employee wellbeing is at the core of our values, and we support our people through the provision of flexible working conditions and many other benefits including;
- A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
- 5 weeks of annual recreation leave and 15 days of paid sick/carers leave per year
- Up to 12 months paid parental leave
- Cultural leave and Flexible working options
- Attractive options for salary packaging
- Fitness Passport
- Employee Assistance Program
- Professional development support
- Well-equipped campus facilities including medical, cafes, gym and childcare.
WHAT MATTERS TO US AT JCU?
Our People – Our staff, students, and the communities we serve
Our Education – Knowledge has the power to change lives
Our Place – the Tropics and beyond
Our Research – a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation
HOW TO APPLY
If you are a passionate academic interested in contributing to this valuable area of our university, please obtain further information and apply via the JCU website by clicking ‘apply for this job’ below.
For more information or a confidential discussion, please contact either:
Ruth Barker (Project Lead) on 0402 216 *** or email ***********@jcu.edu.au
Katrina Bird (Deputy Lead) on 0419 891 *** or via email ************@jcu.edu.au
Applications close 20 April at 11.59pm
James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.