Academic Lead – Community and Social Work

About the role

Southern Cross Education Institute – Higher Education (SCEI-HE) is seeking a senior academic leader at the Professor level to head its Master of Social Work (Qualifying) and Bachelor of Human and Community Services (CWA) programmes. Reporting to the Academic Director/CEO, you will shape curriculum quality, drive teaching excellence, and foster a vibrant research culture across community‑focused programmes.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic academic leadership for the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) and Bachelor of Human and Community Services (CWA) programmes.
• Oversee curriculum design, delivery, assessment, moderation and learning outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with ASWEAS, TEQSA, the Higher Education Standards Framework and other regulatory requirements.
• Build and maintain relationships with AASW, Community Work Australia, industry partners and community organisations.
• Lead, mentor and develop a high‑performing team of academic staff.
• Deliver research‑informed teaching and maintain an active scholarly profile.
• Lead course reviews, quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor and support student progression, engagement and success, especially for at‑risk and diverse cohorts.
• Contribute to accreditation, governance, reporting and academic committees.
• Support student recruitment, industry engagement and community partnerships.
• Represent SCEI‑HE with professional bodies, government agencies and external stakeholders (including some travel).

Required profile

• Professor title (or eligibility for Professorial appointment) in Social Work or a closely related discipline.
• PhD in Social Work or a closely related discipline.
• Full membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
• 5–7 years of senior academic leadership experience in higher education.
• Proven experience coordinating Social Work (including Qualifying programmes) or Human and Community Services programmes.
• Strong working knowledge of ASWEAS, TEQSA, Higher Education Standards and ESOS.
• Track record in curriculum design, assessment and academic quality assurance.
• Substantial research and scholarly activity.

Required skills