Program Manager (AI)

• Employment Type: 18 months fixed term role as a Program Manager ( AI ), UNSW IT
• Attractive salary package available
• Location: Kensington campus in NSW (Hybrid Flexible Working) 2-3 days in the office

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community—but more importantly, it’s a community doing extraordinary things. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. It’s this approach that makes our work matter—and why we’re recognised as one of the world’s top 20 universities and ranked Australia’s #1 university, as well as a proud member of the prestigious Group of Eight. If you’re looking for a role where you can shape change, thrive in complexity, and see the real impact of your work every day, you’re in the right place.

The Program Manager (AI) is a senior leadership role responsible for the strategic planning, governance, integration and successful delivery of UNSW’s AI initiatives across the University. The role leads and directs the planning, development and delivery of UNSW’s AI initiatives within the Innovation & Enablement team. The role operates alongside the Technology Manager (AI), providing strategic leadership and program direction, supporting the Head of AI Ecosystem in establishing and executing a university-wide AI delivery roadmap. It ensures that all activities are aligned with the UNSW AI Services & Governance Framework, University technology standards, and relevant privacy, security and ethical obligations.  Working collaboratively with delivery streams across business analysis, integration, solution architecture and engineering, the Program Manager (AI) provides structure, reporting and assurance for Responsible AI delivery across AWS and Azure environments.  This position reports to the Head of AI Ecosystem and has direct reports.

You will lead and provide strategic oversight for the planning, execution and governance of AI initiatives across the university in collaboration with the Technology Manager (AI) and delivery leads.  Collaborate with the Head of AI Ecosystem in developing a AI program master plan that oversees program schedules, key milestones, interdependencies, budgets, benefits realisation and change management activities.  Lead and oversee program-level risk reviews, privacy impact assessments and assurance activities to ensure responsible and compliant AI implementation across the University.  Establish and maintain program-level governance artefacts, registers and dashboards, ensuring accuracy and transparency.  Lead stakeholder engagement and communications across faculties, divisions and executive leadership, preparing high-quality program updates, strategy papers and steering committee reports. Oversee delivery dependencies, milestones and outcomes across multiple AI projects and operational initiatives, ensuring alignment with the University’s strategic objectives. Manage program resources, budgets and delivery performance, ensuring financial responsibility, quality outcomes and realisation of program benefits. Work closely with the Technology Manager (AI) to align technical delivery progress with governance requirements.  Lead, mentor and develop program staff and workstream leads, fostering a high-performing, collaborative and inclusive program environment.

Who you are:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications and/or equivalent experience in program or project management in large complex technology environments. 

• Demonstrated experience leading complex, large-scale programs that include AI, data or digital transformation components. 

• Understanding of the Responsible AI lifecycle, from feasibility to deployment, including risk management, evaluation and compliance. 

• Familiarity with AWS and Azure cloud ecosystems and integration with enterprise systems. 

• Extensive experience leading and influencing multi-disciplinary teams and delivery partners (architecture, data, engineering, cyber, business). 

• Extensive experience establishing and managing program governance, reporting frameworks, risk management practices and quality assurance processes.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to brief senior stakeholders and synthesise complex information clearly. 

• Experience in Agile or hybrid delivery environments using Jira and Confluence. 

• Knowledge of the UNSW AI Services & Governance Framework and demonstrated commitment to Responsible AI principles. 

• Strong analytical and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise concurrent initiatives.

• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.

• Knowledge of health & safety (psychosocial and physical) responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Benefits and Culture - Flexible Working Options (work from home, flexible hours etc), Career development opportunities, Additional 3 days of leave over Christmas period, Discounts and entitlements (retail, education, fitness)

For further details on the benefits, please visit https://www.jobs.unsw.edu.au/lifestyle-benefits

To apply:  Please submit your CV, Cover Letter and responses addressing the required Who you are criteria.

Please note: Sponsorship is not available for this role; valid Australian working rights are required on application.

Pre-Employment Checks
As part of our recruitment process candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment screening, which may include reference checks, qualification verification, right-to-work verification, and criminal history screening where relevant to the role.

Contact: Jen MacLachlan - Talent Acquisition Partner- e: j.maclachlan@unsw.edu.au

Please apply through the application portal as we do not accept direct applications to the email above.

Applications close:  Wednesday 4th of November at 11.30pm

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.

 The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.