Executive Director - IMAS

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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.

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OtherExecutive Director

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.

Lead a globally distinctive marine and Antarctic research institute
Inspire excellence, innovation and impact to deliver world-leading insights
Ongoing, senior executive leadership opportunity based in Hobart, Tasmania

About the Role

~1 min read

The University of Tasmania is seeking an exceptional and inspiring leader to become the next Executive Director of the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS).

This is a rare opportunity to lead a globally recognised institute whose research, education and partnerships are helping to address some of the defining challenges of our time. As Executive Director, you will inspire a community of researchers, educators and professional staff to pursue excellence, deepen collaboration and extend the reach and impact of IMAS's work across Tasmania, Australia and the world.

We are looking for a transformational leader to provide strategic, academic and operational leadership to IMAS, guiding a diverse and accomplished community united by a shared mission to contribute to a globally sustainable future.

As an influential advocate, you will strengthen IMAS's standing as a trusted partner to government, industry, philanthropic organisations and research institutions nationally and internationally.

Success in this role will require a leader who combines strategic foresight with authentic and inclusive people leadership—someone who can bring people together around a compelling vision, navigate complexity with confidence, and create the conditions for excellence, innovation and impact.

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.

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.

We are seeking an accomplished executive leader with the capability to inspire and influence both locally and globally. In addition, you will bring to the role:

Proven experience as a transformational leader, driving strategic direction, organisational performance and meaningful change.
A track record of fostering and enabling research excellence, innovation and impact within complex organisations.
Demonstrated success building high-performing, collaborative and inclusive teams and developing future leaders.
Exceptional relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills, including experience working with government, industry, research partners and community stakeholders.
Strong strategic, operational and financial leadership capability.
An understanding of marine, Antarctic, environmental or sustainability-related issues, or the ability to quickly establish credibility in these fields.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a globally recognised institute and contribute to research, education and partnerships that influence understanding of our oceans, Antarctica and the future of our planet. This is an ongoing senior management position; you'll also have access to an array of staff benefits and discounts including:

26 weeks paid parental leave for primary caregivers
17% superannuation contribution
Health and fitness membership options
Accommodation and car hire discounts
Health insurance and banking discounts
Novated leasing
Generous relocation support to Tasmania as required

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.

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.

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

Please note online interviews will take place on 27 August 2026, and progressing candidates will travel to Tasmania in the week commencing 7 September 2026.

For further information about this position, please contact talentteam@utas.edu.au

Position Description - Executive Director IMAS (July 2026).pdf

Candidate Brochure - Executive Director IMAS (July 2026).pdf

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.

Advertised: 16 Jul 2026 Tasmania Standard Time
Applications close: 15 Aug 2026 Tasmania Standard Time

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