Program Director - RUSH Connected Pathways

About this Opportunity

•    Fixed-Term (until 29.12.2028), Full-Time 
•    VET and Business Development
•    CQUniversity Cairns, Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton or Townsville
•    Senior Management Contract
•    Attractive Remuneration Package

Join an organisation with an unbreakable belief that quality education, training and research should be available to everyone – regardless of background, location or life circumstances.

Working at CQUniversity

CQUniversity has been selected to lead delivery of the nationally funded RUSH Connected Pathways Program, a National TAFE Network initiative designed to improve educational access, participation, transition, retention and success for vocational learners from regional, rural and remote communities.

We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to establish and lead this important initiative, delivering pathway development, stakeholder engagement, student support and community partnership activities across participating RUSH and Community University Centre (CUC) locations.

Reporting to the Director, Corporate Training Solutions, you will provide leadership across a geographically dispersed project team and build strong relationships with schools, tertiary providers, industry, government agencies and community stakeholders.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a nationally significant project focused on improving educational outcomes for regional and remote Australians.

• Lead the strategic implementation of the RUSH Connected Pathways Program.
• Establish and manage project governance, reporting and compliance requirements.
• Develop and oversee innovative education and training pathways.
• Build productive relationships with schools, communities, government agencies, industry and tertiary partners.
• Lead project staff responsible for student success, pathway development and learner support.
• Monitor project performance against funding, participation and outcome targets.
• Represent CQUniversity in national forums and partnership activities.
• Identify opportunities to enhance vocational learner participation, retention and success across regional and remote Australia

Why This Role Matters

The RUSH Connected Pathways Program supports CQUniversity's commitment to educational equity, regional engagement and student success. The role is critical to ensuring successful delivery of funded activities and achieving improved outcomes for learners in regional, rural and remote communities

Be Rewarded

• 17% superannuation (with the choice to join an award-winning superfund)
• 5.4 weeks annual leave (plus 3 working days paid at Christmas and New Year closure)
• 10 days personal/sick leave, plus 5 days carer’s leave
• 7.25 hours engaged service leave
• Up to 5 days paid Indigenous Cultural or Ceremonial leave (Identified Staff)
• Fantastic professional and career development opportunities
• Up to 26 weeks (six months) paid parental leave
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program and Fitness Passport

Position Requirements

• Postgraduate qualifications and extensive leadership experience, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
• Demonstrated success leading complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
• Strong experience in education, training, community engagement, student success, workforce development or related fields.
• Proven capability in stakeholder management and partnership development.
• Experience managing geographically dispersed teams and programs.
• Highly developed communication, negotiation and influencing skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage funding agreements, reporting and project governance requirements

Pre-Employment Checks

Appointment to this role is subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, which may include a National Police Check and/or Working with Children Check (where applicable).

The University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and respectful environment where its members can study, work and live free from gender-based violence. In line with our organisational values and regulatory obligations, applicants may be required to declare any past or current allegations, investigations or findings relating to gender-based violence.

The successful candidate may also be required to demonstrate that they meet the “fit and proper person” criteria as required under applicable legislation and regulatory frameworks (including ASQA requirements where relevant).

Our Commitment to Inclusion

At CQUniversity, inclusivity is at the heart of who we are. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and empowered to succeed regardless of background or ability.

We advance reconciliation through our Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), First Nations Workforce Strategy and our First Nations Cultural Competency Framework, strengthening opportunities for First Nations peoples and embedding cultural respect across our organisation. 

Through our Disability-Informed Action Plan, we continue to enhance accessibility and inclusion across our University. As a recognised member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, we actively promote awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities, helping to ensure everyone can bring their whole selves to work and thrive.

CQUniversity is also committed to providing an accessible, equitable and inclusive recruitment and selection process. The University will provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment, selection, appointment and onboarding process to ensure people with disability can participate on an equal basis with others.

Position Description

For further information about this position, please refer to the Position Description.

Apply today for a career that changes lives

Applications Close: 11:59pm, Sunday, 22 November 2026

Job Requisition ID: 7780

When submitting your application, please include: Your Current CV or Resume, and a 1-2 page Cover Letter highlighting your relevant skills, experience and suitability for the position. 

Work Rights: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Candidates must hold the full rights to work in Australia to be considered for this appointment.

CQUniversity is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes diversity in the workplace. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and CQUniversity’s domestic and international student graduates with post-study work rights are encouraged to apply.