Head of Research Insights & Analytics

• Full-time, continuing position within the Advanced Analytics, Planning and Enterprise Data team
• Lead the University's research analytics capability, driving research excellence, impact and performance through data-driven insights
• Offering a competitive remuneration package including 17% superannuation

About the opportunity

The University is seeking a Head of Research Insights and Analytics to lead and shape the institution's research analytics capability. This will entail defining how research evidence, data and intelligence are used to inform strategy, improve performance, and advance research excellence and impact across all disciplines.

Reporting to the Chief Data and Analytics Officer and leading a specialist team, you will partner with the Research Portfolio, faculties and senior academic leaders to deliver strategic research insights that support evidence-based decision-making, research investment and institutional priorities. You will drive the continual evolution of research analytics, reporting, benchmarking, visualisation and self-service capabilities, while ensuring research data remains trusted, secure, compliant and fit for purpose.

This role is ideal for an experienced analytics leader who combines strategic thinking, strong stakeholder engagement and deep technical expertise to translate complex data into meaningful actions and measurable outcomes. You will play a critical role in strengthening the University's research performance, supporting major external assessments and enhancing its national and global standing.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• lead the development and execution of the University's research analytics strategy, aligning research intelligence with institutional priorities and performance objectives
• partner with academic and professional leaders to deliver actionable insights that inform research strategy, resource allocation and investment decisions
• oversee analytics and reporting for major external assessments and submissions, including rankings and benchmarking exercises
• drive innovation in research reporting, visualisation, predictive analytics and self-service capabilities to improve access to trusted insights
• establish robust data governance, quality and compliance frameworks that ensure the integrity, security and reliability of research information
• lead, develop and mentor a high-performing analytics team while fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement
• monitor emerging trends in research policy, funding, assessment and analytics to identify opportunities and risks that may impact research performance and institutional outcomes.

About you

• significant experience in a senior leadership role within a research analytics, data analytics, institutional planning or comparable function in a large and complex organisation
• demonstrated success leading and developing high-performing analytics teams and building organisational capability in data-driven decision-making
• proven ability to engage and influence senior executives, academic leaders and diverse stakeholder groups through the delivery of strategic insights and advice
• extensive experience in analytics, reporting, performance measurement, benchmarking and data governance frameworks
• strong understanding of contemporary analytics practices, including predictive analytics, visualisation and self-service reporting environments
• exceptional communication, presentation and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to translate complex analytical concepts into clear business outcomes.

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

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. 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 any documents in alternate formats, please contact Nayomi Siriwardane, Recruitment Operations by email to nayomi.siriwardane@sydney.edu.au

© The University of Sydney

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

Click to view the Position Description for this role.

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