Job Interim Executive Director - IMAS, Hobart

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 IMAS’s globally recognised marine and Antarctic research and partnerships
• Foster an inclusive, high-performing culture and develop future leaders
• Ensure financial sustainability aligned with IMAS strategic priorities

About the Opportunity

Grounded in Tasmania yet globally connected, IMAS plays an essential role in addressing critical sustainability challenges. The Executive Director will advance research that conserves temperate marine ecosystems, protects the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, and informs sustainable, low-impact seafood production.

We are seeking an inclusive and values-driven leader to champion the IMAS vision and uphold its global reputation for excellence in marine and Antarctic research. The Executive Director, in collaboration with the IMAS leadership team, will lead core programs in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Ecology and Biodiversity, and Oceans, Ice and Climate, cultivating impactful collaborations with academia, industry, government, and international partners.

Operating across IMAS’s Hobart Waterfront and Taroona sites, the Executive Director will foster a supportive and collegial workplace, mentor emerging leaders, ensure financial sustainability, and represent IMAS across the University and to external stakeholders

About the Portfolio

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.

What’s Required

• 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:

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

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
• For further information about this position, please contact: Write to the company
• Applications close Sunday 7th December 2025
• Interviews with shortlisted candidates are scheduled for Friday 12th December 2025
• This vacancy is advertised internally only in the first instance to our current staff

Position Description IMAS Executive Director November 2025.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.