Head Of Department – Community Services Program

Join the Acknowledge Education Team: Igniting Potential, Fostering Growth!

Acknowledge Education is a leading training provider with campuses throughout Australia offering a variety of courses in a range of industries such as health, Community Services, social work, business, civil construction and hospitality. In our 139-year history in education, we remain true to our mission to stay a challenging, relevant and creative leader in the education industry

True to our name, we acknowledge and celebrate the unique aspirations and achievements of every student. From our roots as an English language school in Victoria, ​we've evolved into a national academic powerhouse, with campuses in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, and Brisbane educating over 6,000 students every year.​    

To find out more about us, please visit https://www.acknowledgeeducation.edu.au/about-us/   

About the Role 

Reporting directly to the Dean, this is a senior leadership role responsible for providing academic and day-to-day operational leadership to the academic and teaching staff delivering courses within the Department of Community Services. Additionally, you will assist the Dean in preparing reports for the Academic Board and its sub-committees.

Key responsibilities include: 

• Academic & Operational Leadership - Provide direction to academic staff, ensuring high-quality, innovative programs; Delegate roles; Oversee and manage operations -timetabling classes and exams, resource planning, enrolments, and recognition of prior learning ; Supervise assessments, coordinate program improvements, and conduct performance appraisals for direct reports.
• Course Development and Enhancement - Assist in developing new courses; Support Course Advisory Committees and conduct research as required for course development and improvement.
• External Articulation and Benchmarking - Establish & manage external articulation arrangements with other educational institutions; Oversee moderation arrangements and benchmark academic performance against objectives. 
• Scholarly Activities and Professional Development - Lead and support scholarly activities and professional development of staff; Engage in research to enhance teaching and learning within the organisation.
• Internal Audit and Organisational Outcomes - Assist the Quality Assurance Team in conducting annual internal audits; Collaborate with the Dean on marketing, budgeting, student admissions, graduation, and alumni communication; Ensure compliance with relevant accreditation standards - Higher Education Standards Framework 2021 / Standards for RTOs 2015 / Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) National Code

About You

• A PhD degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant academic field from an accredited institution. 
• Proven experience in academic leadership roles, preferably within an education setting, demonstrating the ability to inspire, motivate, and mentor staff. 
• A strong academic background with a record of research and scholarly activities. 
• A commitment to promoting student success, well-being, and academic support. 
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans to achieve departmental and institutional goals. 
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to promote collaboration among staff, students, and external partners. 
• Familiarity with relevant education policies, procedures, and standards. 
• Experience in maintaining academic quality and ensuring compliance with accreditation standards.
• A proactive and innovative approach to program development and enhancement. 
• A demonstrated commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the department and the AE community.

Why work with us

• Opportunities to grow within the organisation
• $1,500 professional development allowance 
• Incredibly committed and supportive team of student-centric professionals
• Flexibility to work from home during non-teaching hours (For Academic staff)
• Be part of a fast-growing organization working in an agile environment
• Acknowledge education is part of UP Education group – Be part of a leading education provider: https://www.up.education/

To Apply:  

Questions about your identity help us appreciate the diversity of individuals looking to work with us, ensuring we’re attracting applications from people with identities and perspectives that are as diverse as our students.   

We are an equal opportunity employer.  As part of our commitment to equity, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process.   We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.