International Rankings Manager

The Role

As the International Rankings Manager, you will lead the coordination and continuous improvement of the University's approach to international rankings. Working collaboratively across the University, you will support the development and implementation of strategies that enhance institutional performance, reputation and visibility across major global ranking systems.

Reporting to the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research), you will coordinate rankings submissions, analyse performance data, benchmark outcomes against national and international peers, and work with academic and professional stakeholders to identify opportunities for improvement. You will also develop relationships with external ranking organisations and higher education sector networks to support the University's strategic objectives.

In this role you will:

• Lead the development and implementation of initiatives that support the University's international rankings performance.
• Coordinate submissions to major global ranking systems, ensuring the integrity of data and reporting.
• Analyse rankings outcomes and benchmark performance against national and international peers to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Provide strategic advice and insights to inform decision-making and enhance institutional performance.
• Partner with Colleges and Divisions to drive rankings-related data collection, validation and improvement initiatives.
• Build productive relationships with external ranking organisations and sector networks while promoting understanding of rankings methodologies across the University.
• Lead and develop staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement.

This continuing position is full time at a Higher Education Worker (HEW) 8 Level and will be located at the Callaghan Campus (Awabakal land).

How will you inspire us?

You will have:

• Postgraduate qualifications or progress towards postgraduate qualifications and extensive relevant experience; or extensive experience and management experience; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/ training. 
• Demonstrated experience analysing and managing complex institutional datasets, performance metrics and reporting processes, preferably within a higher education, research or comparable data-intensive environment.
• Strong understanding of global university rankings and their strategic implications.
• Demonstrated experience using business intelligence, benchmarking or analytics platforms to analyse organisational performance and inform strategic decision-making.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Proven ability to manage projects, prioritise tasks, and deliver outcomes within tight deadlines.
• Experience in developing and implementing strategic initiatives in a large organisation.

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability.

About the Unit

Under the University’s strategic plan, the Research and Innovation Division oversees the enhancement of institutional reputation and global competitiveness. The University is committed to leveraging strengths in education, research and engagement to deliver transformative outcomes and recognises that world University rankings are an important measurement tool in monitoring the success of the mission and the underling strategic initiatives.

What we offer

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively.

These include:

• Remuneration for this position is Higher Education Worker Level 8 ($120,677 to $140,791) + 17% superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience. 
• Additional University Holiday days, generous personal, life, and parental leave, annual leave loading, and additional purchased leave scheme.
• Discounts on private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more, alongside a range of wellbeing and support programs.

For more information on benefits and conditions, please follow this link.

Your next steps

Important information before you apply:

•  If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ (or equivalent) to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy from the Related Documents section before commencing your application.
• Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit.

Your application must include:

• Your resume.
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity.
• A statement addressing each of the essential criteria listed in the Position Description.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document. This document should not exceed 3 pages.

We value diversity and strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are equitable, inclusive, and barrier-free. If you require an alternative pathway to view the Position Description or to submit an application, please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au.

We also seek to provide a fair chance to all applicants by providing reasonable adjustments where required during the assessment and interview phases of the recruitment process.

Our assessment process

Typically candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)
• Referee checks
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive.

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University.

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance – it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.

Contact Us

For specific position enquiries, please contact The Office of the PVC Research via email PVC-Research@newcastle.edu.au

Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au Please note, we do not accept email applications.

Closing date: Thursday, 19 November 2026 at 11.59pm AEDT

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do.

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.  

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