Associate Director, Strategic Philanthropic Initiatives and Foundations

• Full-time, 6 month fixed-term opportunity located at the University of Sydney
• Lead high-impact strategic planning and development initiatives that shape the future of philanthropy at Australia's leading university
• HEO 9 salary package + 17% superannuation

About the opportunity

The University of Sydney's Advancement Portfolio is seeking an experienced strategic project leader to drive key planning, review and development initiatives that will strengthen future philanthropic growth, partnership development and revenue opportunities across the University.

Reporting to the Director, Principal Gifts, you will lead complex strategic projects that support University priorities, with an initial focus on reviewing and shaping the future direction of the International Foundations program. This 6-month contract will see you working across a diverse stakeholder landscape, you will develop frameworks, operating models and recommendations that help identify, assess and prioritise high-value philanthropic opportunities.

This is a unique opportunity for someone who thrives in complexity, enjoys solving ambiguous challenges and can build structure, frameworks and practical solutions. Rather than a traditional fundraising role, success will come from your ability to analyse, influence and drive strategic outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

Leading strategic reviews, planning initiatives and organisational development projects across Advancement

Managing the review of the University's International Foundations program and developing recommendations for future growth and effectiveness

Designing frameworks and methodologies to assess philanthropic opportunities and strategic priorities

Conducting research, environmental scanning and analysis to inform evidence-based recommendations

Developing governance structures, implementation frameworks and business cases to support decision making

Producing high-quality reports, briefing papers and recommendations for senior leaders

Building productive relationships across Advancement and the broader University to drive collaboration and outcomes

Developing tools, resources and capability frameworks that embed sustainable practices and long-term organisational benefit.

Click to view the Position Description for this role.

About you

You are a highly analytical and curious professional with a proven ability to lead complex projects and influence outcomes in large, matrixed organisations. You bring strong stakeholder engagement skills, a strategic mindset and the confidence to navigate ambiguity while delivering practical outcomes.

To be successful, you will demonstrate:

Extensive experience leading strategic projects, reviews, transformation programs or planning initiatives

Experience developing frameworks, operating models, business cases and implementation plans

Strong project management capability, including managing multiple workstreams and competing priorities

Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex information and translate insights into action

Demonstrated success managing and influencing diverse stakeholder groups

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing executive-level reports and recommendations

High levels of initiative, judgement and independence

Experience in trusts and foundations or within higher education, research, philanthropy, consulting, strategy, or other complex environments will be highly regarded.

About us

The Advancement Portfolio strengthens the University's capacity to deliver world-class education and research through philanthropy, alumni engagement and strategic partnerships. We work collaboratively across the University to build meaningful relationships and create opportunities that generate lasting impact for our communities and society.

Why join us?

Lead a strategically significant project with enterprise-wide impact

Partner with senior leaders across a globally recognised institution

Shape the future direction of a key philanthropic growth area

Flexible working arrangements

Access to professional development and career growth opportunities

Competitive remuneration and generous 17% superannuation

A collaborative, values-driven and purpose-led working environment

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to be eligible to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Pre-employment checks and declarations

Your employment is conditional upon the successful completion of all pre-employment or background checks required for the role in terms satisfactory to the University. Also, to meet the University's obligations under the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Eliminate Gender-Based Violence you will be asked to declare if you have been investigated for, or found to engaged in, sexual harm or gender-based violence in the course of previous employment or in a legal process. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or support filling out this application, please contact Sarah Scott, Recruitment Partner by email to sarah.scott@sydney.edu.au

© The University of Sydney

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Applications Close

Sunday 11 October 2026 11:59 PM