Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a young and dynamic institution making a significant impact. Founded on the principles of Catholic social teaching, it aims to promote academic excellence, serve communities, and act as a catalyst for positive change.

Ranked in the top two per cent of universities worldwide and in the top 10 Catholic universities, the university has seven campuses around Australia, a campus in Rome, Italy, and an online campus - ACU Online. ACU's Vision 2033 presents a strategy which allows students and staff to respond to the needs of a changing world while working to enable flourishing lives, foster thriving communities and forge an ethical future.

Reporting directly to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Corporate Services, the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) provides trusted strategic counsel to senior leadership, bringing considered judgement, market insight, and a clear external perspective to inform institutional strategy, major initiatives and decision making. As a senior enterprise leader, the CMO is responsible for shaping and advancing the university's external positioning and branding, institutional reputation, and student demand in a complex, mission-driven environment.

The CMO leads an integrated portfolio spanning, marketing, communications, student recruitment, and external relations, translating priorities into cohesive, evidence-based strategies that support reputation, growth, engagement and long-term sustainability. Contributing to the university's global positioning and engagement, the CMO brings an informed perspective on international markets, partnerships and opportunities while leading a high-performing directorate and leveraging data, digital capability and emerging technologies including AI enabled approaches to enhance effectiveness and organisational impact.

ACU is seeking an exceptional marketing and communications executive with relevant qualifications, enterprise-wide experience in a large, complex, and preferably mission led organisation with a proven track record of strategically leading growth and engagement while enhancing brand. As a contemporary leader you will have successfully leveraged technology while having a reputation as an effective influencer and organisational relationship builder with excellent stakeholder engagement skills.

While knowledge of the Higher Education sector would be beneficial, we are seeking a highly collaborative, astute and mission-led executive who will work in partnership with colleagues across the university and beyond to drive transformation, enhancing the university's brand and reputation while driving growth.

The role is ideally based in Sydney or Melbourne.

For a confidential discussion or to request the candidate information booklet, please contact Kate Robinson on +61 409 769 560 or at krobinson@robinsonfitzgerald.com.au , quoting reference RF0268 .

Applications are to be sent to: krobinson@robinsonfitzgerald.com.au , and will close on Monday 15 June 2026 .

Applications are not being accepted via this recruitment portal.

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