Director
Executive LeadershipPosted 20 Jul 2026
Advertised as “Director, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and Placements ”
Posted 20 Jul 2026
Advertised as “Director, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and Placements ”
The original posting with the fluff stripped out
About VU:
At VU, we aim to be one of the leading impact universities in the world. VU is an impact‑driven university committed to equity, excellence and opportunity. Based in Melbourne’s west and connected globally, we put students first through the VU Block Model®, dual‑sector pathways and strong industry partnerships. We are a values‑led, inclusive workplace where diverse talent is supported to make a real difference.
About the Team:
The Director, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and Placements will join the Tertiary Education Portfolio and work closely with Colleges, professional services and senior leaders across the University. The team is focused on strengthening the quality, consistency and effectiveness of WIL and placement experiences while ensuring compliance, governance excellence and strong industry partnerships. Through a collaborative, university-wide approach, the team supports students to gain valuable real-world learning opportunities that enhance employability and professional readiness.
About the Role:
This is a unique opportunity to lead a significant institutional reform agenda at Victoria University. Reporting to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer, you will provide strategic leadership for Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and placements across both Higher Education and Vocational Education.
You will design and implement a contemporary operating model that strengthens governance, compliance, risk management and system capability while supporting discipline-specific delivery across the University. Working closely with executive leaders, academic staff and professional teams, you will drive transformational change that enhances the student experience, improves organisational performance and ensures VU remains aligned with regulatory and accreditation requirements.
This role offers the opportunity to shape university-wide strategy, influence senior stakeholders and leave a lasting impact on how students engage with industry and workplace learning.
Position Key Duties:
Position Details:
For a detailed overview of the role’s duties and responsibilities, please refer to the Director WIL and Placements Position Description.
About You:
You are a strategic and influential leader with significant experience operating in complex and highly regulated environments. You are passionate about driving institutional improvement and building effective governance frameworks that deliver long-term value.
You will bring:
Please note: The University is a Child Safe organisation. You will be required to hold a current Employee - Working with Children Check (WWCC) or be willing to obtain one prior to commencing employment.
Who to Contact?
For further information relating to the position, please contact:
Name: Ismene Thiveos
Position Title: Senior Advisor, Strategic Projects
**Email:**ismene.thiveos1@vu.edu.au
How to Apply:
To submit your application please click on the Apply button.
Applications must be submitted as a single document comprising:
Applications will close Monday 3 August 2026 at 11.59pm. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This role requires for applicants to have full and permanent working rights in Australia.
Why Join VU:
VU provides competitive salaries, excellent superannuation, and a variety of benefits. University fosters an environment where staff can excel, achieve their goals, and develop their careers. With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and family-friendly policies, VU supports both professional and personal well-being. For more information, please visit our Careers at VU Webpage
Our Commitment:
Victoria University is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially responsible community. We honour our deep diversity by respecting First Nations perspectives and embedding sustainable approaches to Protecting Country, while championing progressive inclusivity for all—embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and racially marginalised communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people of all ages and socio‑economic backgrounds. As a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, we strive to create a place where everyone feels they belong, and we ensure a positive, barrier‑free recruitment experience by providing adjustments and accessible formats upon request at inclusivecareers@vu.edu.au or (03) 9919 5999.