We're Hiring!

• Full time continuing appointment
• Can be based at any JCU Campus
• Academic Level E - $204,612 +17% super & excellent benefits
• Play a leading role in improving health outcomes for rural and remote communities
• Work within a university recognised globally for excellence in rural, tropical and Indigenous health
• Lead committed multidisciplinary teams across Queensland
• Enjoy a supportive, values-driven workplace with strong community impact

Lead impact in rural and remote health education, research and workforce development

James Cook University (JCU) is seeking an outstanding academic leader to serve as Head, School of Rural and Remote Health. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of rural and remote health across Queensland and Australia through innovative education, research leadership and strong community partnerships.

About the Role

The Head of School provides strategic leadership for JCU’s University Departments of Rural Health (UDRHs), including major centres in Mount Isa and Emerald, and additional nodes across regional Queensland. You will oversee the performance and growth of the School, lead high-quality academic activity, and strengthen JCU’s reputation as a national leader in rural and remote health workforce development.

You will drive strategic and operational planning, lead senior staff, and foster a high-performance and collaborative culture across academic and professional teams. A key part of the role involves building strong relationships with government, health services, industry partners and regional communities, while identifying and securing new funding opportunities.

What You’ll Do

• Provide vision, direction and leadership across the School of Rural and Remote Health

• Oversee UDRH operations, performance, budgets and growth strategies

• Lead academic excellence in teaching, research, evaluation and community engagement

• Strengthen partnerships across the Academy Division, Colleges, government and health services

• Advance workforce development and research initiatives aligned with rural and remote health priorities

• Champion cultural capability, compliance, sustainability and JCU’s values

• Represent JCU in national forums and advance advocacy for rural and remote health

About You

We are seeking a dynamic senior academic with:

• A PhD in a health-related discipline

• Proven leadership in strategic and operational planning within a complex environment

• A strong record of academic leadership and high-quality teaching, research and engagement

• Excellent financial, resource and people leadership capabilities

• High-level stakeholder engagement and partnership-building skills

• A deep understanding of rural and remote health workforce needs and the national policy landscape

• Experience leading through change, compliance and cultural transformation

Why JCU?

Join James Cook University's and be part of a team dedicated to making a lasting impact on the health and well-being of rural and remote communities. In addition to a competitive salary and excellent benefits package, you will have the opportunity to work in a supportive and collaborative environment while experiencing the unique lifestyle and natural beauty of Emerald and its surroundings. We offer

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 36.25-hour full-time working week
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading
• 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
• Cash out annual leave and time in lieu options
• Up to 12 months paid parental leave
• A range of flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• Staff study assistance and paid study leave
• Ongoing professional development support
• Fitness Passport
• Corporate discount on health insurance
• Free Employee Assistance Program (coaching and counselling)
• Relocation and Accommodation maybe negotiated

HOW TO APPLY AND CONTACT DETAILS

Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to advance your career and make a meaningful difference. Apply now and become part of our dynamic team at the forefront of rural and remote healthcare.

Click the ‘apply’ button where you will be asked to complete an application form or alternatively, please apply directly via the via the JCU careers page and follow the below steps:

1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success in the role. 

For any enquiries about the role, please contact Professor Sarah Larkins via email deancmd@jcu.edu.au.

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