Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer
Curtin University
 

• Lead one of Curtin University's largest executive portfolios, spanning Digital and Technology Services, Property, Risk and Compliance, and Corporate Communications.
• Based in Perth.
• Shape the digital, physical and risk agenda of a top one per cent global university.

 
Ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide in the 2025 Academic Ranking of World Universities, Curtin is a global institution with campuses across Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, Mauritius and Colombo, and a reputation for high-impact research and strong industry partnerships.

This is an opportunity to join Curtin's senior executive as Chief Operating Officer, reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor, following the retirement of a long-serving incumbent. The role carries end-to-end accountability for Digital and Technology Services, Properties, Facilities & Development, Corporate Communications, Risk, Compliance & Audit, Accommodation and Community Services, Foreign Risk, and Privacy and Information Management with seven direct reports and approximately 460 in total across the team. You will drive the university's digital roadmap,  steer a significant capital works program through Council and Committee governance, and provide executive-level advice on institutional risk, including cyber, data and foreign risk.
We are looking for a senior operator with the credibility to lead large, technical teams. You are level-headed under pressure,  curious about the business beyond your own portfolio and an exceptional team player.

You will bring proven executive leadership in a large, complex organisation, with accountability for multiple operational portfolios, extensive experience overseeing risk, compliance and assurance frameworks, and demonstrated capability advising Boards or Councils on complex, high-risk matters. A university background is not required but experience of an equivalent scope and breadth is essential. The chief executive of a smaller, complex organisation, will also be considered.

How to apply:
Candidate information: Please click on the "Additional Information" button to download a copy of the Excutive Candidate Brochure. For more information, please contact Emma Alberici at ealberici@derwentsearch.com.au or call 0419 683 660 referencing job number 34833.

To apply: Please include a cover letter addressing the selection criteria, along with a resume of no more than four pages. . Applications close: Sunday, 27th September, 2026.

To apply, visit the Derwent Search website and select "Search Jobs" to find this listing. Please include a cover letter addressing the selection criteria, along with a resume of no more than four pages. For a confidential discussion, contact Derwent Partner Emma Alberici on 0419 683 660.