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The University of Tasmania acknowledges the palawa/pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.
Drive IMAS strategy to position the Institute as a global leader in marine and Antarctic research.
Advance conservation and protection of temperate marine and Antarctic ecosystems through knowledge and capability building.
Deliver world-leading insights into climate change, shaping solutions for a sustainable future.
About the Opportunity
The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) is seeking a values-driven and inclusive Executive Director to champion excellence across our Hobart Waterfront and Taroona sites. This pivotal role will nurture a collegial and supportive environment, mentoring staff to reach their highest potential while cultivating the next generation of leaders.
As Executive Director, you will ensure IMAS thrives as a collaborative and financially sustainable institute, strengthening its role as a vital contributor to the University of Tasmania. You will represent marine and Antarctic disciplines at the highest levels within the University and across the global stage, while shaping strategy through membership of key University committees.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to guide IMAS into the future, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and impact in one of the world’s most important centres for marine and Antarctic research.
About the University
The University of Tasmania is a mission-driven institution dedicated to making a difference for Lutruwita/Tasmania and a distinctive contribution from Tasmania to the world. As the sole university on the island, the University is deeply embedded in the social, economic, and environmental fabric of Tasmania, working in close partnership with communities, industry, and government to address key challenges in education, health, productivity, and climate action. The University takes pride in its place-based identity, leveraging Tasmania’s unique geography, culture, and resources to offer world-leading research and education.
The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) is a world class centre for marine and Antarctic research and education at the University of Tasmania. Known for its relevant and globally distinctive research and education programs, IMAS delivers highly trained scientists and researchers who serve the needs of academic institutions, industry, government and the community.
With an ambitious vision to contribute to a globally sustainable future, IMAS works to position Tasmania as an international leader in the responsible management of marine and polar environments. IMAS addresses the critical sustainability challenges affecting the temperate and Southern Oceans and the Antarctic region by generating knowledge and capabilities to:
conserve Australia’s temperate marine ecosystems,
protect the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, and
support the sustainable management and low-impact production of seafood-based protein
What’s Required
With extensive experience at an executive level, you will lead with integrity, self-awareness, courage, respect, empathy, agility and drive. As an effective influencer, you will effectively engage across a broad range of stakeholders while advocating, collaborating, communicating and delegating effectively. In addition, you will bring to the role:
Proven ability as a transformational leader, driving and inspiring engagement with IMAS’s strategic direction and change initiatives and creating an environment that fosters excellence in research and teaching, and professional development and growth in others.
An outstanding record in, and continuing commitment to, research that has achieved international recognition and made innovative, distinguished and sustained contributions to a thematic area relevant to IMAS, demonstrated by an exemplary record of high-quality publications, presentations at conferences and continued success in securing external competitive and other funding.
Demonstrated capacity to influence and lead IMAS culture, including building teams that support the University of Tasmania’s values, positive ways of working and an effective work health and safety culture.
A thorough understanding of Antarctic and/or marine issues at local, national and international levels, a demonstrated capacity to take a leading role in policy debates and the ability to position IMAS within these contexts.
A demonstrated capacity to build and maintain effective and productive links locally, nationally and internationally with industry, government and/or wider community.
Commitment to internationalisation and demonstrated capacity to work with students and staff from diverse backgrounds.
Demonstrated experience in managing safety and operations in a complex scientific organisation, including an understanding of the duties and responsibilities of an ‘officer’ under Work Health and Safety laws.
What’s on Offer?
As we look toward 2050, we remains committed to fostering excellence, collaboration, and transformative education, preparing graduates to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world. While remaining true to our Tasmanian roots, this career defining role will see you significantly contribute to our dedication to making a difference for Tasmania and to the world. In return for your experience, you’ll have access an array of staff benefits and discounts including:
26 Weeks paid parental leave for primary care givers
17% Superannuation contribution
Health and fitness membership options
Accommodation and Car Hire discounts
Health Insurance and Banking
Novated Leasing
Generous relocation support to Tasmania
Belong - Be You
People are at the heart of everything we do. Our vision is to ensure that our people feel encouraged and supported to bring their whole selves to work. Fostering diversity and inclusion is our key priority, supporting our communities to come together in ways that empower connection, learning, belonging and growth. Celebrating the strengths that diversity brings will enable us to achieve our vision and mission. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community. Tell us how we can make this job work for you.
Considering a move to Tasmania to take up this opportunity?
Offering a breath of fresh air, our island State’s wild landscapes, rugged coastlines, distinctive towns, and fascinating history have something for everyone. Tasmania has crafted a unique brand of creativity and adventure such as the world-famous MONA and the exceptional mountain bike tracks of Derby. Our acclaimed fresh food and beverage scene, family-run businesses, and diverse culinary experiences celebrate farm-fresh produce. From our island shores, our research extends to the great Southern Ocean and Antarctic and across the Asia-Pacific.
How to Apply?
If this role is of interest, we look forward to hearing from you. Please provide your up-to-date resume and:
A 1-2 page cover letter outlining your motivation for the role
Address the selection criteria by outlining how your skills and experience align to role specific skills, knowledge and experience in the Position Description
Applications close 11:55pm Sunday 1st February 2026 For further information about this position, please contact: TalentTeam@utas.edu.au
Position-Description-IMAS Executive Director January 2026.pdf
IMAS Candidate Brochure January 2026.pdf
To be eligible for this position, you are required to have Australian citizenship, permanent residence or a current valid visa that allows you to fulfill the requirements of this role.
As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police background checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.
