‘Within the Catholic intellectual tradition and acting in Truth and Love, Australian Catholic University is committed to the pursuit of knowledge, the dignity of the human person and the common good.’

About ACU

As one of the top ten Catholic universities worldwide, ACU is clear about its Catholic identity and mission informed by the Catholic intellectual tradition. Central to this is ACU’s commitment to truly student-centred education; research that is impactful, engaging, and responsive to society’s rapidly changing needs; and a strong, vibrant, and sustainable university culture.

ACU is both a publically funded and a national university with seven campuses across Australia, with its global reach complemented by ACU Online, more than 200 partner universities and a campus in Rome, Italy. The university’s tradition promotes dialogue and collaboration between religious belief and human reasoning – ‘like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth’ (Fides et Ratio).

At ACU, leadership is a team effort. The university is fully supported by effective corporate governance and leadership that ensures all administrative and academic departments work effectively together to deliver the best outcomes for students, staff, and the wider ACU community.

About the Position

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor or Pro Vice-Chancellor (Catholic Mission) is a key senior leader at ACU, responsible for nurturing and advancing the university’s Catholic mission and identity across all university activities. Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Zlatko Skrbis, this role is a key member of the Vice-Chancellor’s senior leadership team.

The new DVC or PVC will be a steward of ACU’s Catholic mission, championing a holistic vision of tertiary education that is informed by the Catholic intellectual tradition and engages purposefully with today’s contemporary social and cultural challenges. The role involves ensuring that Catholic values actively shape the university’s academic and communal life, fostering a vibrant community of faith and inquiry.

The Successful Candidate

The ideal candidate will bring extensive leadership experience within Catholic higher education, religious organisations or related settings, along with a deep understanding of Catholic mission, Catholic social teaching and the educational mission of the Church in diverse settings. A proven ability to inspire and integrate mission in diverse academic, social and operational settings, supported by exceptional communication and pastoral skills that enable engagement with a broad university community in mission-centred dialogue will be critical for success.

This senior leadership position requires strong organisational, leadership and strategic thinking abilities, underpinned by a demonstrated commitment to the Catholic intellectual tradition and its role in addressing pressing and present-day challenges. It is expected that the successful candidate will be an actively engaged Catholic (lay or cleric) with an advanced degree in theology, Catholic studies or religious education, preferably at the PhD level, with the capacity and experience to lead and inspire others to embrace ACU’s mission.

Devereaux Consulting is supporting ACU with the search for the university’s first Pro Vice-Chancellor or Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Catholic Mission). For a confidential conversation or to request the candidate prospectus, please contact Jackie Besley, Managing Partner, Devereaux Consulting on +61 413 633 195 or email [email protected]

Applications close Friday 14 February 2025