Director, Griffith Asia Institute

Location: Primarily based at hirify.global Brisbane South (Nathan) or Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia; may require work across other university locations. The Brisbane South campus is intended to relocate to Griffith CBD in early 2027.

Company

hirify.global is a research-focused university whose Griffith Asia Institute is an internationally recognised centre within Griffith Business School, focused on Asia-Pacific research and engagement.

What you will do

• Set the strategic direction for the Griffith Asia Institute and lead its next phase of development.
• Lead and support a high-performing community of researchers and professional staff.
• Champion interdisciplinary research and expand the Institute’s influence in policy, practice, and public debate.
• Oversee governance, resources, research, education, and capacity-building opportunities.
• Grow and diversify external funding and income.
• Build strategic relationships with universities, governments, industry, donors, and communities across Asia and the Pacific.

Requirements

• Doctoral qualification in a discipline related to the Institute.
• Significant national and international academic standing, with deep Asia-Pacific expertise.
• Strong record of research and thought leadership.
• Experience leading a prominent institute, centre, or complex academic enterprise.
• Experience developing people, building high-performing teams, and leading inclusively.
• Proven ability to secure and diversify external funding, with strong strategic, governance, and resource-management skills.

Nice to have

• Associate Professor (Level D) or Professor (Level E) status.
• Strong regional networks and cultural capability across sectors and borders.

Culture & Benefits

• Full-time, fixed-term appointment for five years.
• Inclusive, safe, and respectful working environment.
• Flexible and diverse university community with support for workplace accommodations.
• Visa sponsorship may be available to the successful candidate.
• Applications are encouraged from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Hiring process

• Submit an online application including a covering letter, current CV with full contact details, and at least three professional referees.
• Applications close Thursday 1 October at 11:59 pm AEST.
• Application updates are expected at least two to three weeks after the closing date.