Dean, School of Engineering

About UsWestern Sydney University is a modern, globally recognised institution at the heart of one of Australia’s most dynamic and diverse regions. Ranked number one worldwide in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings (2019–2025), we are committed to research, teaching, sustainability, and partnerships that improve lives and promote equity.The School of Engineering at Western Sydney University features state-of-the-art facilities, including the Parramatta Engineering Innovation Hub, the Centre for Infrastructure Engineering and the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing Technology. Our curriculum is both vertically and horizontally integrated, focused on problem-based learning, and offers majors in Mechanical, Robotics and Mechatronics, Civil, Construction, Electrical and Electronic, Advanced Manufacturing, Materials, and Sustainability Engineering.Our researchers are internationally recognised for addressing major regional and global challenges, such as developing advanced systems for infrastructure monitoring, sustainable manufacturing, and pioneering water-recycling technologies. The School is actively engaged in the growth of Western Sydney, contributing to transformative projects that are shaping the region’s future.The OpportunityAs Dean of the School of Engineering, you will be at the forefront of cultivating a culture of innovation, excellence, and inclusion across all facets of teaching, research, and external engagement. In this pivotal leadership role, you will develop and enact a School strategy that aligns with Faculty and University priorities, ensuring the delivery of high-quality education and impactful research outcomes. You will play a key part in strengthening partnerships with industry, government, accreditation agencies, and community partners, enhancing the relevance of the curriculum and supporting graduate employability.Your oversight will extend to curriculum development, accreditation processes, and continuous improvement initiatives, maintaining excellence in educational pathways and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Central to your work will be fostering a high-quality student experience, championing innovation, student retention, and engagement across all cohorts. You will drive research performance and interdisciplinary collaboration, mentoring the next generation of engineering leaders to ensure the School remains at the cutting edge of advancement.As a steward of the School’s financial and strategic resources, you will manage budgets and operations to ensure sustainability and alignment with broader institutional goals. Leading a talented team of Portfolio Directors, Heads of Discipline, Professors, and professional staff, you will shape the future of engineering education and research at Western Sydney University, making a lasting impact on both the institution and the wider community.About YouWe are seeking a bold, strategic, and collaborative leader with:A doctoral qualification in Engineering, with extensive senior leadership experience in higher education or a relevant professional domain.Extensive senior leadership experience in higher education or a relevant professional domain.An established international reputation for research or exceptional strategic and managerial achievement in a relevant discipline.Significant experience in engineering education, with a track record of positive outcomes for student success and equity.Proven ability to lead and manage senior academic staff, fostering collaboration, accountability, and high performance.Strong knowledge of professional, accreditation, and industry issues and trends relevant to the School’s disciplines.High-level capability in managing financial, human, and physical resources within a complex organisation.Demonstrated ability to lead and manage senior academic staff, fostering collaboration, accountability, and high performance.Capacity to maintain and strengthen relationships with industry, professional bodies, and community partners.Strategic insight into the future directions of engineering disciplines, including academic innovation, graduate outcomes, and regional and global relevance.Why Join Us?At Western Sydney University, you’ll join a vibrant, values-driven community that is shaping the future of engineering and technology. We offer:The opportunity to lead a School at a globally ranked university, making a tangible difference to communities locally and globally.A dynamic, supportive leadership team and a collaborative, interdisciplinary Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science (ECS).Access to world-class facilities and advanced research centres.A competitive executive salary and benefits package.The chance to work in one of Australia’s most diverse and rapidly growing regions, with strong community and industry connections.This role is based at our Penrith campus, with flexibility to support executive commitments.How to Apply?To express your interest in the role of Dean, School of Engineering, please prepare the following application materials:A comprehensive academic CV detailing positions held (with dates), key achievements, education, professional training, qualifications (including dates of completion), and a summary of your research activity and outputs.A candidate statement (maximum five pages) outlining your vision for the role, what you hope to accomplish, and how your experience and skills align with the selection criteria.Contact details for three referees, including your relationship to each referee and why you have nominated them. Referees will only be contacted after prior consultation with you.Your earliest possible start date.Please submit your application via the Western Sydney University careers page.For further details about the role and the application process, please review the Candidate Brief.Position Enquiries:For a confidential discussion or to apply, please email Brian Falzon (Executive Dean, ECS) at B.Falzon@westernsydney.edu.au or Michael Baker (Faculty General Manager, ECS) at Mi.Baker@westernsydney.edu.au.Closing Date:11:59pm on Monday 26th January 2026Immigration SponsorshipEmployer Visa sponsorship will be provided if required.Please note that only applications submitted via the University’s online recruitment system will be considered.