Assistant Manager (Graduate Office) [Fixed-term contract]

SALARY RANGE: RM6000-RM8000

Responsibilities:

• The position is an executive position at the Sarawak Campus. This position will lead the administrative executives and officers at the unit level and report to the Associate Director and Director of the School of Research.
• The Assistant Manager of the Graduate Office – Higher Degree Research (HDR) will provide strategic, operational leadership and management support to ensure the efficient operation of the HDR programs. The role involves overseeing all HDR-related processes, managing academic progression and admission, and providing operational support to HDR candidates and supervisors. The position will ensure the University policy compliance while enhancing student services and operational workflows within the Graduate Office.
• The Assistant Manager will work closely with the Deans, Associate Deans, Centre Directors, Heads of Schools, and Discipline Leaders to ensure alignment with the University’s strategic initiatives in research and innovation, particularly in business development, IP management, and commercialization.
• In undertaking these responsibilities, the position is expected to exhibit a highly professional approach in working closely and collaboratively with management and staff members at the Sarawak and Melbourne campuses and with parties (private and government) external to the University.

Qualifications and Criteria:

1. A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management or other related discipline from a recognized institution.
2. A Master’s degree holder in a management-related field can be considered.
3. At least 3 – 5 years of relevant work experience in university administration, specifically managing HDR programs or postgraduate studies with minimum of one (1) year of supervisory experience.
4. Demonstrated ability to coordinate a range of key administration functions, systems and processes, including the ability to prioritize and follow through on a diverse range of competing functions and tasks to meet deadlines within a rapidly changing environment.
5. High-level interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate with people at all levels and vary communication style accordingly demonstrated through an ability to motivate, persuade, and negotiate with multiple stakeholders.
6. Highly developed oral and writing skills (in English) demonstrated through experience presenting complex information and producing periodic management reports.
7. High-level analytical and problem-solving skills and the ability to develop and implement innovative solutions.
8. Proven familiarity and competence with MS Office professional software applications and other management information systems to produce and analyze data and prepare management reports.
9. Demonstrated track record of successfully managing professional accreditation exercises or similar due diligence activities.
10. Demonstrated experience in managing teams and implementing process improvements in a complex academic environment.
11. Knowledge of HDR policies, regulations, and administrative procedures.
12. Strong leadership and people management skills with a proven ability to mentor staff and manage cross-functional teams.
13. High-level organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
14. Proficiency in data management systems (e.g., RMON, MyRA) and financial budgeting processes.
15. Demonstrated ability to manage financial, human, physical, and IT resources to achieve strategic and operational goals. Familiarity with Activity-Based budgeting and costing approach, as well as in conducting financial review and analysis.
16. Experience in providing leadership and direction to staff to achieve organizational goals, including through supportive performance review and development process.