Research Data Governance Strategist

• Lead strategy and implementation of research data governance across the University

• Full-time, 2-year fixed term position

• Competitive SPS A Base Salary + 17% Superannuation

About the opportunity

Are you a strategic leader with deep expertise in research data governance, policy, and implementation?

We are seeking a Research Data Governance Strategist to lead the development and implementation of the University’s Research Data Governance (RDG) Program, in alignment with the RDG Charter and its key scope areas.

In this role, you will translate strategic direction into practical, implementable governance frameworks, policy uplift, lifecycle models, and assurance mechanisms. You will provide expert advice to senior stakeholders and governance bodies while driving the delivery of priority initiatives, including risk-based controls, lifecycle integration, and capability uplift across the research community.

You will play a critical role in advancing the University’s Digital Sydney program of work, contributing to the development of modern, secure, and scalable research data capabilities that support innovation, integrity, and world-class research outcomes.

Operating with a high degree of autonomy, this position offers the opportunity to shape how research data is governed, managed, and enabled across the University.

Why join us?

• work at the intersection of research, policy, risk, and digital capability

• lead a high-impact program shaping research data governance and integrity

• collaborate with senior stakeholders across faculties and central functions

• contribute to sector-leading practices aligned with the University’s Digital Sydney transformation

About the role

• lead delivery of research data governance workstreams, operationalising governance frameworks, lifecycle controls, and risk-based approaches to support compliance and research integrity

• develop and implement governance policies, procedures, standards, and reporting mechanisms, supporting phased delivery of RDG initiatives including policy uplift and lifecycle mapping

• provide expert advice and guidance to senior stakeholders, governance groups, and the research community on data governance obligations, risk mitigation, and best practice

• collaborate with RDG program team, research data management, integrity, ICT, privacy, cyber security, risk, library, records, and faculties to embed governance requirements into research systems, platforms, and processes

• support stakeholder engagement, capability uplift, and adoption activities including training, guidance, and enablement for researchers and HDR candidates

• contribute to program planning, business case development and implementation, resource planning, and continuous improvement, including engagement with external sector bodies and benchmarking activities

About you

• demonstrated experience in a strategy and leadership role, preferably in higher education, developing and implementing policy, governance frameworks, or research data practices

• strong understanding of research data governance, lifecycle management, compliance requirements, and regulatory environments

• demonstrated experience in project management and delivery of complex, cross-functional initiatives

• experience influencing organisational cultural change and driving adoption of new frameworks, policies, or systems

• proven ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with researchers and stakeholders at all levels

• strong strategic and operational planning skills, with the ability to translate strategy into practical outcomes

• well-developed negotiation, influencing, and conflict resolution skills in complex environments

• demonstrated experience in risk management, including identifying, analysing, and mitigating organisational risks

• excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with attention to detail and the ability to think holistically

• strong communication skills, with the ability to develop clear documentation, reports, and stakeholder-facing materials

• knowledge of research data reporting requirements, integrity, ethics, and the higher education regulatory landscape

• postgraduate qualifications or equivalent experience in a relevant discipline

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.

Work Rights
 

Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. For a continuing position, you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

Australian Temporary Residents currently employed at the University of Sydney may be considered for a fixed term contract for the length of their visa, depending on the requirements of the hiring area and the position.

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.

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through 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 LGBTIQ. 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

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Nicole Cunningham, Recruitment Operations by email to nicole.cunningham@sydney.edu.au

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