Full-time Continuing Contingent Funding until 31 December 2030 | Canberra, ACT – Hybrid Options | Competitive

This is an Identified position in accordance with the Australian National University’s Identified position policy and is only open to an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person and therefore confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage may be requested.

About the organisation

The Australian National University (ANU) is Australia’s national university, founded in 1946 with a bold, post-war mandate to help shape the nation’s future through world-leading research, education and public purpose. Created to strengthen national unity, deepen Australia’s understanding of itself and its region, and build research capability equal to the world’s best, ANU continues to play a unique role in addressing the most complex challenges facing the nation. This responsibility to convene diverse perspectives, cultivate talent, and translate knowledge into impact remains central to the University’s identity and its contribution to Australia and the world.

Within this mission, the Centre for Indigenous Economic Transformation (CIET) stands as an Indigenous-led national hub dedicated to advancing First Nations economic self-determination. CIET brings together research excellence, policy influence, partnerships and education to catalyse systems change across institutional and fiscal reform, access to capital, Indigenous trade, data sovereignty and clean energy transitions. Working closely with First Nations leaders and organisations, governments, industry, investors and philanthropy, the Centre focuses on shifting Australia’s economic landscape from managing welfare to building and managing wealth. As a high-profile convener, CIET translates evidence into action and builds capability across communities and institutions, embodying the University’s enduring commitment to national responsibility, future-focused leadership and meaningful impact.

About the role

As the Director, CIET you will lead an Indigenous-led national centre that delivers research, policy influence, education and partnerships to advance Indigenous economic self-determination across Australia. You will position CIET as a trusted, high-profile convener working with First Nations leaders, governments, industry, funders and academia. Building on the foundations of the First Nations Portfolio and the Murru Waaru Seminar Series, you will work closely with the CLGP Dean, maintain strategic engagement with the Vice-Chancellor, and partner with the First Nations Economic Empowerment Alliance and an Indigenous-majority Advisory Board. You will strengthen national and international relationships and foster collaboration across the University’s interdisciplinary strengths.

As the Director, you will set the Centre’s strategy and priorities, ensure strong governance and sustainability, and lead high-quality research, policy and education activities. You will build partnerships across sectors, generate new income opportunities, and guide cross-cultural, multidisciplinary teams with inclusive and people-focused leadership. You will oversee staff development, embed cultural safety, uphold Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property, and ensure EEO principles are reflected in all operations. You will also drive impact measurement and raise CIET’s national profile through strategic communications, events and media engagement.

For a full list of responsibilities for the above role, please contact Pipeline Talent via [email protected] using the subject line: Director (Identified) - Centre for Indigenous Economic Transformation - The Australian National University enquiry via EthicalJobs.

About you

You will be an experienced Indigenous leader with a strong record of research or public policy impact in Indigenous affairs, and proven success leading complex, high-profile initiatives. You bring exceptional stakeholder capability across government, industry, philanthropy and Indigenous leadership, supported by international partnerships and experience working in culturally nuanced contexts.

You lead cross-cultural teams with cultural safety at the centre, protect Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property, and create inclusive, high-performing workplaces. You have solid financial and fundraising acumen, communicate with influence.

Selection Criteria

1. Distinguished record of research and/or public policy impact in Indigenous affairs or economic rights, with recognised contributions to national or international reform.
2. Strategic leadership of complex, high-profile initiatives, demonstrating the ability to set vision, drive research, policy, education and outreach, and deliver centre level outcomes.
3. Exceptional stakeholder and partnership capability, with an international reputation for effective engagement across government, industry, philanthropy and Indigenous leadership in culturally sensitive contexts.
4. Proven cross-cultural senior leadership, embedding cultural competency, protecting Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property, and fostering safe, inclusive and high-performing workplaces.
5. Strong global partnerships, financial stewardship and influence, including international collaboration, budget oversight, fundraising and philanthropy, and the ability to communicate and shape systems level change while upholding EEO and culturally safe practice.

What we can offer you

• 17% superannuation
• Cultural Support
• On site childcare and school holiday programs
• Access to Employee Assistance Program
• ANU Health Insurance plans
• Salary packing and novated leasing options
• Staff Discounts

How to Apply

Your application should include:

• A current resume.
• A cover letter responding to the selection criteria and outlining your suitability for the position.

Applications are to be submitted via the "Apply Now" button.

How to get more information

For further information on the position, please contact the team at Pipeline Talent.

Dave Collins

Director, Recruitment

E: [email protected] | [email protected]

PH: 02 8001 6603