We're Hiring!

James Cook University (JCU) is creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that make a difference locally and globally.

We are seeking an experienced and analytically strong Enterprise Portfolio Manager to help shape how JCU prioritises, governs and delivers its strategic initiatives. Working within the Enterprise Portfolio Management function the role will strengthen portfolio visibility, investment discipline, delivery confidence and benefits realisation across the University.

• Full time, Fixed Term (October 2028) | 36.25 hours a week
• Based at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas
• HEWL 8: $ 111,960 - $128,567 per year plus up to 17% employer superannuation

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Enterprise Portfolio Manager, you will help build and maintain a consolidated enterprise level view of JCU’s strategic initiatives, bringing together delivery status, milestones, investment and budget profiles, risks, dependencies, benefits and decisions required. You will coordinate the annual and in-year portfolio cycle, support evidence-based prioritisation and sequencing, and translate complex delivery information into concise reporting and advice for the Vice Chancellor, University Executive and relevant governance forums.

Working across divisions and with Executive Sponsors, Program Leads, Project Managers, business owners and functional specialists, you will drive consistent portfolio and project management practices, identify emerging constraints, risks and dependencies, and support timely escalation, decision-making and benefits realisation.

WHAT YOU CAN BRING TO THE ROLE

You will bring postgraduate qualifications and relevant experience consistent with HEWL 8, together with:

• Proven experience coordinating portfolios, programs or strategic initiatives in a large and complex organisation.
• Strong governance, assurance and analytical capability, including the assessment of business cases, investment proposals, delivery readiness and benefits realisation.
• A sound understanding of project, program and portfolio management disciplines, including scope, milestones, RAG reporting, risks, issues, dependencies and transition to business-as-usual.
• The ability to work with ambiguity and completing priorities applying advanced judgement and reporting skills, with the ability to turn complex information into clear dashboards, briefs, decision papers and executive-level advice.
• Confidence working with senior stakeholders and governance forums, demonstrating high-level communication, facilitation and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to constructively challenge assumptions, clarify accountabilities, test delivery confidence and support timely escalation.

WHY JCU?

JCU offers a dynamic and culturally diverse workplace where your ideas are valued, your professional growth is supported, and your work-life balance is respected. Working under the values of Authenticity, Excellence, Integrity, and Respect, we support and empower our people through the provisions of:

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading.
• 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year.
• Up to 6 months paid parental leave.
• A range of flexible working options.
• Staff study assistance and paid study leave.
• Ongoing professional development support.
• Fitness Passport.
• Corporate discount on health insurance.
• Free Employee Assistance Program for coaching and counselling.
• Well-equipped modern facilities and contemporary workspaces, with access to on-site childcare and medical services at the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

HOW TO APPLY

Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at JCU, where your future meets the tropics.

Select the ‘apply’ button to be redirected to the JCU careers page, create an applicant account and:

• Complete the application form.
• Upload your current resume.
• Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience against the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will support your success.

ABOUT OUR PROCESS

At JCU, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of the role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome once the recruitment process is finalised.

Please visit our Information Privacy Policy to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet the role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community and are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming learning and working environment.