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

UNSW College

Kensington

Description

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

  • UNSW College, subsidiary of UNSW Sydney — a registered Higher Education Provider
  • Kensington campus | 15 minutes by light rail to Central Station
  • Full-time ongoing | Work from home flexibility available
  • Highly competitive remuneration package

Support the CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor shaping the future of education

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).

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.

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.

About the role

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.

Key responsibilities include:

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

About you

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

You will bring:

  • Extensive experience supporting C-suite executives, Vice-Chancellors, CEOs or senior leaders at Board level
  • Outstanding organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities
  • Strong stakeholder engagement, influencing and relationship management skills
  • Experience supporting governance processes, including Board papers, agendas, minutes and action tracking
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  • High levels of professionalism, discretion and emotional intelligence
  • Advanced Microsoft 365 skills and confidence with digital collaboration and productivity tools

Desirable:

  • Experience within higher education, government, a regulated industry or a large complex organisation
  • Exposure to Board governance, ministerial engagement or international stakeholder environments

About our CEO & Pro Vice-Chancellor

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.

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.

What we offer

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

Apply now

If you are a highly capable Executive Assistant looking for a role where you can make a genuine strategic impact, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit:

  • Your CV
  • A short cover letter outlining your experience and interest in this role

Eligibility: This ongoing role is open to Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens and permanent residents only.

For enquiries, contact [email protected]

A position description is available above this page

Applications close 24 June 2026. Shortlisting may commence prior to the closing date.