Description:
Federation University transforms lives and enhances communities by providing access, equity and opportunity – bridging the gap between participation and attainment. As Australia's leading regional university with over 150 years of history, Federation delivers world-class education across university and TAFE campuses in Ballarat, Berwick, Gippsland, and the Wimmera, offering pathways from vocational to higher education and beyond.
Pioneering the future of health and wellbeing education through its transformative co-operative model, Federation University aims to become Australia's leading co-operative university in partnership with employers across the regions. Its vision extends beyond traditional boundaries – building partnerships nationally and internationally, expanding transnational education opportunities, and creating pathways that span the dual-sector institution from TAFE to postgraduate study. Federation's strategy aligns with government priorities at every level, embracing a digital future that positions the University to thrive in a changing educational landscape. As Australia faces critical workforce shortages in health and allied health professions, Federation University's research is deeply embedded in digital innovation and the creation of sustainable, liveable communities. Its learning approach focuses on personalisation and collaboration between students, employers and educators – removing traditional barriers to access and success.
The University is now seeking an exceptional leader to drive the Institute of Health and Wellbeing and champion the cross-university portfolio of Co-operative Education. This dual role places the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Co-operative Education and Institute of Health and Wellbeing at the heart of the University's strategic transformation – working directly with employers, professional bodies, and communities to reimagine how health professionals are educated and prepared for practice.
Reporting to the Provost, the Pro Vice-Chancellor will join the Vice-Chancellor's Senior Team, and collaborate with fellow Pro Vice-Chancellors to break down traditional academic silos. The successful candidate will lead the implementation of the Co-operative Education Model, fostering innovation in clinical and workplace learning, embracing digital technologies including AI and simulation, and ensuring programs meet accreditation standards while pushing boundaries in educational delivery.
A strategic and collaborative leader, the successful candidate will be instrumental in positioning Federation University as the leader in co-operative health education – driving financial sustainability while advancing the University's mission of access, equity, and regional impact. Essential to success will be the ability to build interdisciplinary collaboration and create authentic partnerships with health services, industry, and communities.
Applicants will hold a doctoral-level qualification and demonstrate a strong record in health education, research and academic leadership. Senior executives from the broader health and wellbeing sector with relevant experience, academic credentials, and a proven record of innovation are also encouraged to apply.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of health education in Australia – leading an institute that directly addresses workforce challenges while transforming how students learn, work, and contribute to their communities throughout their careers.
For a confidential discussion or to obtain a position description, please contact Jackie Besley, Managing Partner, Devereaux Consulting on +61 (0) 413 633 195 or by email: PVC@devereauxconsulting.com
Applications close Friday 28 November 2025.