TRANSEARCH International is delighted to be partnering with the University of Melbourne in the appointment of the Executive Director, Workplace Relations & Integrity (WRI). Building on a decade of strong leadership, this appointment marks an exciting new chapter to lead one of Australia’s most respected workplace relations and integrity functions at a world-leading university.
Reporting directly to the Chief People Officer, this is a significant leadership role within a community renowned for its excellence, inclusion, and people-centred leadership. The University’s people (HR) function is focused on building a high-energy, forward-thinking team — bringing both professionalism and humanity to complex challenges.
Lead Workplace Relations and Integrity at the University of Melbourne
As Executive Director, you will lead the delivery of the University’s industrial relations strategy and oversee the full breadth of WRI activities — including EBA negotiations, advisory services, case management, investigations, dispute resolution, and advocacy. Your work will directly shape a workplace culture built on respect, fairness, and accountability.
Leading a capable and collaborative team, you will foster a positive and expert-driven environment, delivering high-quality, responsive workplace relations and integrity services across the institution. Strong partnerships within the people (HR) function, Legal, Compliance, Risk, and academic and professional leaders will be critical to success.
This is a role for an agile and strategic leader who thrives in complex environments, brings calm authority to sensitive matters, and understands the essential links between workplace culture, trust, and organisational excellence.
About You
You are an accomplished senior executive who brings:
- Extensive leadership experience across workplace relations, industrial relations, employment law and human resources within large, complex, values-driven environments.
- A proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, build organisational capability, and drive positive cultural change.
- Expertise in enterprise bargaining, complex negotiations, and managing high-risk workplace integrity matters.
- Outstanding stakeholder engagement, advocacy and strategic advisory skills.
- A proven ability to build trust with stakeholders and provide advice that is respected and acted upon, and skilled in fostering strong relationships, enabling effective collaboration, and delivering positive outcomes.
- A genuine commitment to ethical leadership, diversity, inclusion and wellbeing.
- Relevant tertiary qualifications are required. Postgraduate qualifications and/or experience in the higher education sector will be highly regarded.
Why Join Us?
At the University of Melbourne, our purpose is to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research.
In this role, you will not only influence strategy and leadership outcomes, but also join a workplace that values authenticity, resilience and a positive, people-first approach to leadership.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your cover letter and resume to silvana.pardo@transearch.com.au.
For a confidential discussion, please contact Silvana Pardo on 0411 302 582.
The search process will commence immediately. Applications close 13 May 2025; early submission is recommended.
Position Description
