Company Description

Every institution values excellence. What matters most is why.
Griffith was created to be a different type of university. You’ll find we’re about leading research, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education. But what sets us apart is why those things matter and how you’ll achieve them.

Why? Griffith brings together exceptional minds like yours from across the globe and from all walks of life. Here, we do incredible work, questioning and challenging, always in the pursuit of excellence.

is an internationally recognised research centre within Griffith Business School. GAI reflects Griffith University's enduring commitment to the study and engagement of nations in Asia and the Pacific.

Propelling Asia and the Pacific to become global leaders in sustainable development.

Building on this strong foundation, GAI brings world-class expertise to the defining challenges and opportunities shaping Asia and the Pacific. Through ambitious interdisciplinary research, influential regional partnerships and evidence-based engagement, the Institute connects ideas with action across government, business, academia and communities. For an incoming Director, this is a rare opportunity to lead an established, high-impact institute and strengthen its voice, reach and influence at a pivotal time for the region.

Job Description

As Director, Griffith Asia Institute, you will shape the Institute’s next chapter—setting its strategic direction, leading its globally connected research community and advancing its ambition for Asia and the Pacific to lead the world in sustainable development. You will champion interdisciplinary research and expand GAI’s influence in policy, practice and public debate.

Reporting to the Dean (Research), you will align GAI’s priorities with the research and engagement ambitions of Griffith Business School and the wider University. You will lead and support a high-performing community of researchers and professional staff, oversee governance and resources, and grow and diversify external funding, research, education and capacity-building opportunities.

As a visible ambassador for GAI, you will deepen strategic relationships with universities, governments, industry, donors and communities across Asia and the Pacific. You will translate the Institute’s regional expertise into meaningful impact and position Griffith as a trusted partner on the issues shaping the region’s future.

About you

You are an internationally respected academic leader with the vision and collaborative style to guide GAI’s next phase. You bring a doctoral qualification and significant national and international standing, deep Asia-Pacific expertise, a strong record of research and thought leadership, and experience leading a prominent institute, centre or complex academic enterprise. Associate Professor (Level D) and Professor (Level E) are encouraged to apply.

You will demonstrate:

• Inspiring and inclusive leadership, with a record of developing people and building high-performing teams.
• Strong regional networks and the cultural capability to build trusted partnerships across sectors and borders.
• Success translating interdisciplinary research into policy, practice and public debate.
• A proven ability to secure and diversify external funding and income.
• Sound strategic, governance and resource-management capability.

Qualifications

A doctoral qualification in a discipline related to the Institute

Visa sponsorship may be available to the successful candidate.