Chief University Infrastructure Officer

• Senior Executive appointment
• Shape the long-term physical environment of this globally recognised institution
• Progressive culture that values innovation, sustainability and strategic vision 

About the opportunity

The Chief University Infrastructure Officer has overall accountability for planning and managing university infrastructure including property assets i.e. properties, buildings and facilities including master planning.

The role also oversees all project management of major capital works & construction projects.

This role leads the strategic development and management of the university’s property portfolio, ensuring maximum value from current and future land and building assets. It drives the planning, design and delivery of projects that create high‑quality, sustainable environments for teaching, learning, research and administration.

A key focus is aligning development with stakeholder needs while optimising the use of land and facilities. The role also oversees heritage asset management and ensures all activities comply with legislative requirements. Responsibilities extend to managing major acquisitions, disposals, and construction projects, working closely with Central Operation Services to work together on long‑term asset strategies and management.

The position provides expert policy leadership and strategic advice to the Vice‑Chancellor and University Executive on all property‑related matters. It also represents the university externally in negotiations, presentations and development processes, advocating for the institution’s interests and communicating its future property vision. The role oversees student accommodation and ensures the delivery of high‑quality infrastructure services to the university community. As part of senior leadership, it contributes to governance committees including Senate—and can chair or participate in key leadership groups.

With responsibility for risk management, work health and safety, and quality assurance across infrastructure, the role also manages significant operational and capital budgets and leads the people‑management functions of its teams. In addition, it oversees institution‑wide projects and undertakes special assignments on behalf of the Vice‑Chancellor and Vice‑President Operations.

About you (skills, capabilities and experience)

• Postgraduate qualification in property, engineering, architecture, business, facilities management, or related field or equivalent experience.
• Extensive senior leadership experience in infrastructure, property, or facilities management within large, complex organisations (ideally higher education, government, or public sector).
• Proven track record overseeing major capital works, property development, and asset management projects.
• Strong capability in strategic planning, policy development, and implementation for property and infrastructure portfolios.
• Advanced financial management skills, including handling large budgets and capital planning.
• Outstanding stakeholder engagement and communication abilities, with experience representing organisations at senior levels.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience managing heritage assets and student accommodation portfolios.
• Understanding of University governance structures and committee processes.
• Professional membership or certification (e.g., Facilities Management Association, Property Council, Engineers).

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.

Term and remuneration

The appointment is fixed term for 5 years. The successful candidate will be offered a competitive remuneration package commensurate with the responsibilities of the position and the candidate’s relevant experience and qualifications.

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.

To keep our community safe, please be aware of our COVID safety precautions which form our conditions of entry for all staff, students and visitors coming to campus.

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

Capstone Recruitment has partnered with USYD on the Recruitment of this role.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact:

Clive Brown (0424 177 331) or Fiona Ralph (0412 350 843)

To apply, please submit a cover letter and CV by 30th January to [email protected] or call Clive Brown (0424 177 331) or Fiona Ralph (0412 350 843)

Candidate Information Brochure

Position Description

© The University of Sydney

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

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