Australia — International Student Market
822K inbound students (2024) +10%
1. China 168K
2. India 128K
3. Nepal 57K
4. Vietnam 33K
5. Malaysia 26K
3 international branch campuses in Australia
OVERVIEW The Chief Executive Officer of Asialink will lead Australia’s premier centre for Asia engagement through a period of strategic transformation and renewal. Based at the University of Melbourne, this executive leadership role is responsible for advancing Asialink’s national influence, strengthening Australia–Asia engagement, and supporting the University’s global strategy. The CEO will drive thought leadership, shape policy conversations, and oversee a delivery-focused organisation operating across business, education, diplomacy, and the arts. Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global, Culture and Engagement), the CEO will work closely with governance bodies, advise University leadership, and guide strategic initiatives. The role requires a strong understanding of Asia, high-level stakeholder engagement capability, and proven leadership across complex organisations.
Key responsibilities
- Lead Asialink’s strategic direction, financial sustainability, and operational performance
- Drive thought leadership and policy influence on Australia–Asia relations
- Build high-impact partnerships across government, business, education, and civil society
- Provide strong organisational leadership across Asialink’s divisions
- Oversee governance, compliance, and financial performance
- Secure funding and evolve the business model to support long-term growth and relevance
- Foster an inclusive and values-driven workplace culture
- Lead public debate and deepen national understanding of Asia’s importance to Australia’s future
- Contribute to strategic projects and advise University leadership
Requirements
- Nationally recognised leadership experience
- Professional background spanning government, international relations, business, higher education, or the arts
- Deep knowledge of Asia and strong networks across Australia and the Indo-Pacific
- Experience in strategic planning and organisational governance
- Demonstrated people leadership skills and ability to build a positive workplace culture
- Commercial acumen with a track record of sustainable growth and public sector impact
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and analytical skills
- Commitment to advancing Australia’s Asia capability WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS Asialink plays a significant role in strengthening Australia’s engagement with Asia through programs, partnerships, and policy influence. The CEO will help shape national conversations about Australia’s strategic priorities in the region while guiding an organisation focused on improving Asia capability across multiple sectors. This role also contributes to the University of Melbourne’s global engagement agenda and supports collaboration between government, business, education, diplomacy, and the arts. The position offers the opportunity to influence long-term institutional and national outcomes in a rapidly evolving regional environment.
Bonus: Application advice
- Demonstrate clear evidence of executive leadership in complex organisations or cross-sector environments
- Highlight experience building strategic partnerships across government, education, business, or international networks
- Provide examples of influencing policy, public debate, or organisational strategy
- Emphasise experience managing financial sustainability, governance, and organisational growth
- Showcase communication and stakeholder engagement skills, particularly in international or Asia-focused contexts
- Tailor your cover letter to Asialink’s mission of strengthening Australia–Asia engagement and capability
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Chief Executive Officer of Asialink - University of Melbourne employer: Uniglobalcareers
UQ International Development (UQID) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the beautiful St Lucia campus, where you can lead impactful international development initiatives. With a strong focus on employee growth, UQID fosters a collaborative culture that encourages innovation and excellence, providing opportunities to work alongside diverse experts and stakeholders in a meaningful role that contributes to global development goals. The competitive salary package, including generous superannuation, further enhances the appeal of this senior leadership position.
