Director, Griffith Asia Institute

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. What we can offer This is a fixed-term (for five years), full-time position and you will be primarily based at Griffith University Brisbane South (Nathan) or Gold Coast. Please note that Griffith Business School at Brisbane South (Nathan) will be relocating to Griffith CBD, with an intended relocation date of early 2027. As Griffith is a multi-site university you may be required to work across other locations A doctoral qualification in a discipline related to the Institute Why Griffith? At Griffith, we’re committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all - whoever you are and wherever you’re from. If you require any accommodations, we welcome you to let us know so we can work with you to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. For more information please visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page. Our University is committed to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive community for all. In alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence (2025), Griffith University includes a declaration as part of the recruitment journey to uphold the values and standards of our community. Griffith University also maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of modern slavery. For more information, please refer to Griffith’s Modern Slavery Policy . How to apply Please submit your application online and ensure it includes the following: A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role (please refer to the Job Description/Key Accountabilities above and the position description ). Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details. Names and contact details of at least three professional referees (no contact will be made without your permission) Visa sponsorship may be available to the successful candidate. For further information specifically about this role, please contact Professor Chris Fleming, Dean Research, Griffith Business School, via email: . For further application and recruitment advice, please contact Kate Watson, Talent Acquisition Partner via email: Closing date: Thursday 1st October, at 11:59 pm AEST All applications must be submitted online. Please allow at least 2 – 3 weeks from the closing date to expect an application update. 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. Griffith Asia Institute (GAI) 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.